4 minIn a world that can be described as unstable and troubled, art can be a good way to escape and dream. Art can also be a judicious investment if it is made consciously.
Over the years, we have observed that the works of the great artists on the contemporary art market are less and less accessible financially. Prices tend to rise exponentially and we have to ask if all this isn't just speculation. Many of our clients get lost in this tumult and we understand.
To help you regain confidence and serenity in your art purchases, we have decided to highlight 7 contemporary artists who are still accessible and whom we recommend you buy in the next few years. Follow the guide!
1 - David Hockney
We couldn't fail to mention the great David Hockney in the introduction to this ranking.
A key artist on the contemporary art market, the British painter is the author of numerous editions: lithographs, etchings, digital prints...
Detail from the lithograph Pool Made with Paper and Blue Ink, David Hockney, 1980
The market is very dynamic and it is possible to acquire a work by the artist almost every week. Indeed, sales of these multiples are very regular and prices have tended to rise over the years. Depending on the print, prices can range from a few hundred euros to several thousand.
In the meantime, you can also check out David Hockney's profile on Art Shortlist, where you might find your next favourite.
2 - Banksy
Another Englishman, yes, that's Banksy! No need to introduce you to the most mysterious artist on this list.
David versus Goliath, one of Banksy's walls painted in Ukraine in 2022
However, you should be aware that it is possible to buy a signed and numbered screen print by the artist for several thousand euros, depending on the work. So don't delay too long, because prices tend to soar and, as with Hockney, become almost unaffordable.
For example, the value of a print of Little Girl with a Balloon from 2004 is slowly approaching half a million euros. Not cheap for a print with several hundred copies!
Banksy can be found on Art Shortlist here
3 - Yayoi Kusama
Japanese icon Yayoi Kusama is another artist to consider for a smart art purchase.
Pumpkin (YY), Yayoi Kusama, 1996, screen print on paper
As with the two previous artists, we recommend that you look at her multiple works, which nevertheless fetch high prices of between 10 000 and 150 000 euros for the most beautiful.
Read also: 8 things to know about Yayoi Kusama
4 - JR
The one and only French artist in this selection, JR's art is also a good option for art buying.
Trompe l'oeil, Death Valley, Billboard, JR, 2021, lithograph
JR has produced a number of high-quality lithographic prints. You can buy one for less than the three artists mentioned above.
Visit Art Shortlist to find some fine prints by JR
5 - Ai Weiwei
Buying multiples is definitely a way in for collectors.
Another major artist from China is Ai Weiwei. As with the others, his prints represent interesting creations for a thoughtful acquisition.
Detail from the silkscreen print Middle Finger in Red, Ai Weiwei, 2023
The Chinese artist and activist who has become a symbol of courage and resistance in the face of oppression is still accessible on the art market. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred euros to several thousand for a signed and numbered silkscreen by Ai Weiwei.
Discover this artist on Art Shortlist
6 - Vhils
The Portuguese street artist is gaining increasing prominence on the art market, and well deserves it.
Known for his unique walls created with jackhammers and dynamite, Vhils is an artist to keep an eye on, as much for his technical prowess as for the opportunity to buy one of his creations.
Impression, Vhils, 2022, lithograph
A unique work will cost you several thousand euros, while a multiple work will be worth a few hundred.
A selection of Vhils's works is artshortlisted
7 - Damien Hirst
As the third British artist in the ranking, we couldn't leave out Damien Hirst.
H10-4 Suiko (The Empresses), Damien Hirst, 2022, giclée print laminated on aluminium composite
His original paintings seem increasingly out of reach, as do his installations, some of which have fetched millions at auction, leaving us with his multiples, which sell for anything from a few hundred euros to several thousand.
Once again, discover Damien Hirst's artistic work on Art Shortlist
