2026 U.S. Art Market Report
After two years of contraction, the U.S. art market closed 2025 with a somewhat unexpected resurgence. Auction sales climbed 23% year over year, propelled by major estate collections, renewed demand for historical names, and a surge of activity in the year’s final months. Yet beneath the headlines lies a far more nuanced story—one that speaks to shifting tastes, regional realignments, and an evolving definition of value in today’s market.
The 2026 U.S. Art Market Report, produced by Bank of America and ArtTactic, is our first comprehensive study focused solely on the American art market and its structure, behavior, and performance. Drawing on proprietary spend data, auction analytics, and economic insights from the Chief Investment Office for Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank, the report illuminates where momentum is building, where pressure points persist, and how collectors are navigating a market that rewards discernment more than speculation.
“The U.S. market hasn’t just stabilized—it’s recalibrated. Quality, provenance and long‑term stewardship are once again driving outcomes.”
- Drew Watson, Managing Director,
Head of Art Services at Bank of America
This inaugural report offers a clear, data‑driven view of the forces reshaping the American art landscape and what this could mean for collectors, arts professionals, and institutions in the years ahead.
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Bank of America and its affiliates do not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.
The proprietary data provided by Bank of America and included in this report reflects only transactions and insights derived from Bank of America’s internal systems and client activity. It does not represent the entirety of the art market and should not be interpreted as comprehensive market coverage. Readers should exercise caution in interpreting this data and are encouraged to seek additional context or verification where appropriate.
ArtTactic shall not be liable for any errors or inaccuracies in this report or for any actions taken in reliance on information or opinion contained in this report.
Report contents represent the opinion of ArtTactic and state of affairs only as at the date the report is prepared and may quickly become out of date.
Information in this report is to be used for general research purposes only. It does not represent any form of investment or trading advice and should not be used as such. Any statements referring to the desirability of holding, selling, or buying are general opinions and not recommendations to buy or sell any item or artist.
Further specialist advice, where necessary from authorized investment professionals, should be sought regarding the appropriateness of buying or selling any works of art or implementing any of the strategies discussed or recommended in this report. Information in this report does not have regard to the specific business or investment objectives, financial situation or other particular needs of any person. Any buying and selling of works of art could result in a person losing money.
Although certain information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, we do not guarantee its accuracy, completeness or fairness. We have relied upon and assumed, without independent verification, the accuracy and completeness of all information available from public sources.
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