Women Artists Exhibitions

Shattering Records: Women Artists Surge in Market, Yet Disparities Persist

Women artists are making significant strides in the art market, with Joan Mitchell’s paintings commanding record-breaking prices at recent New York auctions. However, despite these successes, challenges and disparities persist in the valuation and recognition of women’s art.

Mitchell’s Untitled, 1959, and Sunflowers, 1990-91, sold for staggering amounts, setting new benchmarks for her works and highlighting the market’s acknowledgment of her artistic prowess alongside male peers like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning.

While total sales of works by female artists rose by 10% to $186.3 million in New York’s eight major evening sales, representing notable achievements for artists like Jadé Fadojutimi and Amy Sillman, the overall value for female artists constituted only 12% of the total sales. The prices fetched for Mitchell’s paintings, although substantial, ranked 15th and 16th among works by male artists at those sales.

The lingering gender disparity is evident in collectors’ preferences. The limited availability of art by women in galleries and auctions contributes to this disparity, reflecting historical challenges where men were afforded more time and space for artistic pursuits.

However, signs of positive change are emerging. The wealthiest collectors, spending at least $10 million annually, are increasing their investments in art by women, leading to a shift in the composition of their collections.

While acknowledging the progress made, experts emphasize that achieving gender equality in the art market will take time. The excitement and strength observed in recent sales were often centered around women artists, indicating a growing recognition of diversity in the industry. As the art market evolves, there is optimism that inclusivity and appreciation for women artists will continue to rise.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Penta}