The Rise of Women in Art Collecting
The future of art collecting is being shaped significantly by women, particularly among younger generations. According to the 2025 Art Basel & UBS Survey of Global Collecting, insights were gathered from 3,100 high-net-worth (HNW) collectors across ten global markets. A striking 76% of respondents identified as Gen Z or Millennials, highlighting a shift in the dynamics of art ownership.
Spending Trends
The report reveals that HNW women are outpacing their male counterparts in spending. In contrast, male collectors from Gen X and the Baby Boomer generation still hold an edge over their female peers, but the trend is unmistakable: young women are leading the charge. On average, HNW women spent 46% more than men on fine art and antiques. Almost every category surveyed showed Gen Z and Millennial women investing more than their male counterparts.
Support for Emerging Artists
Interestingly, 55% of women respondents reported purchasing works from emerging and unknown artists “frequently or often,” compared to just 44% of men. This commitment to nurturing new talent reflects a broader interest among women in photography and digital art, often surpassing traditional mediums such as painting.
Risk and Diversity in Collecting
The report also challenges the stereotype that women are more risk-averse than men. Clare McAndrew, the report’s author, noted that women collectors are not only aware of potential risks but are often more willing to embrace them. They engage with a broader range of nontraditional mediums and actively support up-and-coming artists.
Gender Parity in Collections
Moreover, women’s collections are approaching gender parity, with 49% of the pieces owned by female artists, compared to 40% in men’s collections. Gen Z collectors are emerging as a unique demographic of “omnivore collectors,” dedicating an average of 26% of their wealth to art—the highest percentage among all age groups. They are active buyers, not only in fine art but also in luxury goods, spending nearly five times more on items like sneakers and handbags than their generational peers.
A Cultural Shift
While recent discussions have highlighted the volatility and uncertainty within the art market, this shift indicates a transformation in the cultural capital landscape. It brings a renewed sense of optimism to the industry. The findings suggest that collecting transcends mere asset value, serving as a reflection of identity, cultural expression, and personal enjoyment.
A Contemporary Update
Remember the “power lesbian” art collectors depicted in a classic episode of Sex and the City? This narrative is receiving a contemporary update in the real world with women taking the lead in art ownership and cultural influence.
In other news, check out these nude selfies transformed into paintings. Click here to view the full gallery at Hypebae.
Source inspired by international fashion publications. Adapted & edited for Maverick.
We respect copyrights. Articles on this site are submitted and written by external contributors. If you believe any content infringes your rights, please contact our team at Info@maverick-magazine.co.il.
ref:75963f28-2473-4398-bf2d-a3aba75cdb81
