After two years of caution, the art market is showing clear signs of renewed confidence. New figures from ArtTactic reveal that global auction sales at Christie's, Sotheby's and Phillips rose 70% in the first half of 2026, driven not only by headline-making masterpieces but by growing strength across the wider market.
In this editorial, we look beyond the record results to explore what is driving the recovery, why London has emerged as a standout market, and what these trends could mean for collectors and consignors over the months ahead.
Why does it matter? This is particularly positive for galleries selling editioned works and blue-chip prints. Buyers are becoming more active across a broader price range, rather than only competing for museum-quality masterpieces.
Why does it matter?: London has re-established itself as one of the healthiest auction markets globally. This creates a favourable backdrop for UK galleries, as strong auction results often increase collector confidence and support private market activity.
Why does it matter?: This suggests the recovery has stronger foundations than previous rebounds. Collectors are not only willing to buy high-value works but also actively participate across a wider range of price points, creating healthier market conditions for both primary- and secondary-market dealers.
So, is the art market on the road to recovery? The evidence all suggests that it is. Rising sales, stronger sell-through rates and renewed activity beyond the very top of the market all point to a meaningful improvement in confidence.
That said, the recovery remains selective. Buyers are still focused on quality, condition, provenance and realistic pricing, and not every artist or price point will move at the same pace.
For collectors, this may present an attractive window, with confidence returning before pricing in all areas has fully recovered. For sellers, improving demand and a broader pool of active buyers could create stronger opportunities where works are positioned carefully and priced in line with current market evidence.
At Hang-Up, we are seeing increased engagement across both blue-chip editions and established contemporary artists. While a full recovery will take time, the direction of travel is increasingly positive.
