26 Dec 2025 | 4 min read
The art market has seen some extraordinary moments throughout this year. From David Hockney to Yayoi Kusama, Banksy to Harland Miller, there have been significant market shifts and achievements that not only strengthen their collectability but also culturally embed them into the art world as a whole.
Read on to find our top moments of 2025...
On 19th Novmeber, at the debut sale at Sotheby's Breuer building, Gustav Klimt's Bildnis Elisabeth Lederer (Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer) sold for an incredible $236,360,000. Making this the second most expensive artwork ever sold at auction.
At Phillips London Evening & Day Editions on 6 June 2025, African Elephant, from Endangered Species (F. & S. 293) reached a new record £215,900.
Dedicated Hockney Sale at Sotheby's London, 17 October 2025.
A hugely successful sale, with every lot selling for significantly above its estimate. The standout piece, The Arrival of Spring in Woldgate, East Yorkshire in 2011 (twenty eleven) - 19 February, was estimated to sell between £120,000 - £180,000 and sold for a staggering £762,000 - the record price paid for a print by the artist.
Sale Total £6,210,300
On 4th March 2025 at Sotheby's London, A notable painting by Banksy has sold for £4,260,000. The painting has been part of the personal collection of Mark Hoppus, bassist and co-founder of the American rock band Blink-182, since 2011.
In May, it was an honour to host Greek artist Kostas Papakostas' first solo show in London. In Flux was a sensational success with a show of beautiful, fluid original paintings. We also released his first limited-edition print, Echoes of Motion, which sold out upon release.
“For me it’s one of the greatest international contemporary art museums in the world, and it’s here in London. I feel this show … will be a benchmark for me. A moment in my life when I look back and go forward. A true celebration of living.” - Tracey Emin in an interview with The Guardian.
Tate Modern - 26 February to 30 August 2026
A Manhattan block where Basquiat lived and worked has been renamed in his honour.
The stretch of Great Jones Street that is home to the late artist's final home and studio has received a commemorative co-naming.
The art world has witnessed a historic moment in Melbourne as Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s vibrant retrospective at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) has become the most attended ticketed art exhibition in Australian history. With over 480,000 visitors since its opening in December, and the final numbers are expected to soar past 500,000. Kusama’s immersive spectacle has officially eclipsed the previous NGV record set by Van Gogh and the Seasons in 2017.
Two new works attributed to Banksy have appeared in London.
The confirmed piece, revealed in Bayswater, west London, shows two children lying flat on the ground in coats, bobble hats and wellington boots, one of them pointing up towards the night sky. Adding intrigue to the unveiling, an identical image has also surfaced beneath the Centre Point tower in central London.
The highly anticipated solo show by Bridget Riley has opened at the Turner Contemporary. ‘Learning to See’, a condensed display of 26 paintings and drawings dating from the 1960s to the present day.
22 Nov 2025 - 4 May 2026
A new display showcasing monumental paintings by internationally acclaimed artist Harland Miller, including brand-new works specially created for the exhibition.
10 December 2025 – 25 January 2026
Every year, Banksy makes the headlines in some way or another. In September, a mural appeared on the Royal Courts of Justice depicting a judge, in a traditional wig and black robe, looming over and beating a fallen protester with a gavel. Blood is seen to be splattered on the plaque the protester is still clutching, whilst lying on their back.
It has subsequently been removed, leaving a ghostly presence, and the Metropolitan Police designated the mural as criminal damage...
The Art Basel and UBS Survey of Global Collecting 2025 reinforces the sentiment that collectors, it seems, are coming back in buying mode.
According to the report, over 60% of high-net-worth collectors plan to increase their art spending this year, with the majority focusing on works in the £5,000–£500,000 range. This so-called “mid-tier” segment is where many of Hang-Up’s artists sit comfortably: blue chip, established, but still, according to the report, accessible.
Not only this, but the fact that there have been auction result records and steady but strong sales for, Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Yayoi Kusama and Billy Childish, solidifies these artists as investment opportunities.
How have the spending patterns changed, and how could they impact the art world?
This year has offered a moment of reflection after what have been several turbulent years. Over the past twelve months, a renewed sense of optimism has emerged among our clients, both institutionally and culturally, fuelled by eagerly anticipated solo exhibitions, record-setting auction results, and compelling new releases from some of our most established artists, alongside exciting newer voices.
As 2025 draws to a close on a high note, it gives us a strong foundation for the year ahead. We look forward to working with you in 2026 and would like to thank you sincerely for your continued support.
8 Jan 2026
26 Dec 2025 | 4 min read
30 Nov 2025 | 5 min read
27 Nov 2025 | 4 min read
24 Nov 2025
21 Nov 2025 | 7 min read
10 Nov 2025 | 3 min read
10 Nov 2025
23 Oct 2025 | 4 min read
