With the year now well underway, we thought it was about time that we looked ahead to what 2024 has in store for art lovers and collectors. If you’ve been wondering what big trends are on the horizon, in this blog we’ll explore some of the major art world trends for 2024.
Sustainable Art
As we all become increasingly aware of our impact on the planet and its resources, it’s only natural that our interest in sustainability would be reflected in the art world too.
Already, many artists are turning to more sustainable practices and utilising eco-friendly materials to create artworks that have maximum resonance but minimal environmental impact. This is something that looks set to continue this year as larger numbers of artists and galleries begin to embed ethical and sustainable practices in the creation, exhibition and distribution of art.
In 2024, we also expect to see artwork that directly reflects and addresses the pressing issues of climate change, deforestation, pollution, and the imminent water crisis.
Digital Experiences
Whilst digital art and buying art online are nothing new, they’re becoming increasingly popular in the post-pandemic world.
With smaller galleries struggling due to increasing overheads, it’s more important than ever for the art world to embrace technology and bridge the gap between the digital and physical by offering online gallery experiences that allow buyers to view and purchase art from the comfort of their own homes.
AI Controversy
We touched on this briefly in our recent blog about how technology is impacting the art world, but the controversy around artificial intelligence (AI) continues.
Already, the role of AI in the creation of art has generated much controversy in the art world and raised questions about ownership, creativity and what it means to be an artist. Whilst there’s no doubt that AI can open up new possibilities for artists, it is also a cause for legitimate concern, particularly since it has been trained using billions of images – some of which are the copyrighted works of living artists.
Whatever your personal feelings about the use of artificial intelligence, one thing is for certain – ongoing tension between traditionalists and those embracing advancing AI technology looks set to continue well into 2024 and beyond.
Embracing Colour and Texture
2024 looks set to be a year of bold experimentation both with colour and texture.
Artists are beginning to experiment with vivid, vibrant colours across mediums, subject matter and style. Examples of this include Spanish painter and sculptor Okuda San Miguel, graffiti artist JonOne, the Nigerian-born British artist Richard Ikhide and painter Jade Fadojutimi.
Artists are also experimenting with new techniques and materials to create textured and tactile work that can be experienced through touch as well as sight. This can be seen as a direct response to the rise of digital art as it gives the viewer a more multi-sensory experience, offering something in addition to what they can see.
This will also include a renewed celebration of textile art like quilts and tapestries, especially those woven with a narrative that allows a viewer to understand the artist behind the piece and the work that went into its creation.
Diversity in Art
The art world is thankfully becoming a more inclusive and diverse space, and this will continue in 2024 as we embrace artists from underrepresented backgrounds who can offer fresh perspectives and open up new discussions.
Rather than a fleeting trend, this should be seen as a cultural shift that echoes the way we as a society view and appreciate other cultures and experiences than our own.
For example, the growing interest in Indigenous and First Nations artists is expected to endure in 2024 and will be a focus point of the 60th Venice Biennale exhibition, directed by the Brazilian curator Adriano Pedrosa under the title ‘Foreigners Everywhere’.
Aardvark Art
We hope you enjoyed this sneak peek into the art world trends for 2024. It looks set to be a fascinating year for art lovers and we can’t wait to see what else might be in store.
As fine art shippers, here at Aardvark Art, we understand how precious art is, both to artists and collectors. We’re well accustomed to handling paintings and other artwork and we’re responsible for the safe transportation of hundreds of pieces around the UK each year.
Though we’re based in Lancashire, we move art from galleries, museums, auctions, collectors and private homes across the UK and with decades of experience, you can rest assured that we know what we’re doing and will get your artwork to its destination safely.
If you’d like to find out more about our services, need a quote for moving art or are simply looking for advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch for a friendly chat about how we can help.