Story perspectives

Global Art Sales Rise 4%, Recovery Uneven

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report shows global art sales rose 4%, totaling $59.6 billion last year, driven by a $2.2 billion auction week in New York and high-value sales at Art Basel Paris.
The recovery remains uneven, with total sales still below pre-pandemic levels.
Clare McAndrew, the report's author, noted growing confidence, especially for established artists, while sales of works under $50,000 declined.
Christie’s plans to auction a $450 million collection of 20th-century masterworks in May.

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Story summary

The Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report shows global art sales rose 4%, totaling $59.6 billion last year, driven by a $2.2 billion auction week in New York and high-value sales at Art Basel Paris.
The recovery remains uneven, with total sales still below pre-pandemic levels.
Clare McAndrew, the report's author, noted growing confidence, especially for established artists, while sales of works under $50,000 declined.
Christie’s plans to auction a $450 million collection of 20th-century masterworks in May.