Hey there beebees, welcome to the art world of 2024! This year, I have noticed that artists are mixing it up with old traditions and digital vibes that are changing the game in how we create and enjoy art. This art guide provides a non-traditional perspective on the art world scene for young artist entrepreneurs (like myself and maybe you?) or art enthusiasts interested in current trends. It also includes reviews the hottest art trends and some essential business advice for you to grow and thrive in the art market…the same advice that I am following on my articstic journey.

Art Trends of 2024

The art scene in 2024 is buzzing with all sorts of trends that pay homage to classic traditions while also diving deep into the latest tech. Part of this section analyzes the most relevant movements that make the art market particular at present. This understanding will help artists and collectors to take advantage of the permanent changes in the art market.

Sculpture

Sculptures are making a huge comeback, smashing together old-school craftsmanship with awesome new 3D printing tech and/or modern styles. This balance is not only for generating eye-appealing spaces but also gives a dynamic layer to art collections that appeal to a wide range of collectors and art lovers. Check out this sculpture by drag icon Juno Birch. Juno is taking classical bust sculpture and twisting it into a creative, trendy, and youthful display of modern art.

Textile Arts

Textile arts are totally stepping up their game, from cool patchwork quilts to amazing woven tapestries. Through these art forms, artists not only show high skills but can also express things and construct stories in the pieces. Therefore, each piece serves as a singular narrative about something. Quilt expos and museum exhibits such as “Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories” held at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston demonstrate the shift from traditional textile arts and artists to a more inclusive, personal, and eclectic art form.

*Bisa Butler, To God and Truth, 2019 as on display in “Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories” at MFA Boston.*

Portraiture

Portraits remain the main attraction. Modern portraiture is energetic and profound, so artists can look for a way to express themselves more freely and tell their stories. Portraiture has also taken on a more contemporary/modern approach to design/subject. Queer artist and Twitch streamer TheNiceLadyOverThere is taking her unique style of portraiture and subjects and live streaming her art process daily. Artists like her are giving the art world a new way of sharing works and interacting with followers.

Small Business Art Insight for 2024

With shifting economic dynamics in the world added to the tech-based mediums available now, small businesses run by artists need to strategize to strike an appropriate balance of market strategy and creative inspiration. Myself and other artists need to rethink our business models to operate effectively within digital platforms and optimize sustainability in their ventures in 2024.

Embracing Digital Platforms

With online galleries and virtual shows popping up everywhere, artists really need to jump on these digital platforms to showcase their works. This method vitally widens their reach and feeds the fast digital consumption habits of art consumers. Artists like myself are finding it more and more integral to increase their social media presences or open their own digital portfolios/shops through sites like SquareSpace.

Sustainable Practices

There’s a huge push for sustainability in how we make and sell art these days. Artists are being urged to choose environmentally friendly materials and methods to help the environment and the increasing segment of green consumers. In the past, many artists would purchase and market art prints of their work.

Selling at markets and art shows may still be a thing, but more and more, artists are using print-on-demand (POD) services to keep costs low, minimize environmental impact by only printing what customers are purchasing, and relieve themselves of some of the burden of running a business. There are many POD service providers out there, but it is important to be knowledgeable about pricing, sourcing, and reviews of each. I am currently using a blend of 3 POD providers depending on the product: Printify, Printful, and LumaPrint.

Looking ahead to 2024, it looks like the art market is gearing up to really dig paintings and sculptures.

In Summary…

The art world is full of life in 2024 and offers many options for creatives and entrepreneurs to exercise their skills. Artists who can to keep up with emerging technologies, adapt their career paths accordingly, cultivate their talent, and make their presence felt will succeed.

For the small business and artist just entering the professional art world like myself, there must be a constant awareness of market tendencies and collector preferences that can make way for their artworks and selling strategies. Simultaneously, it is important to keep an individual and meaningful style or purpose to your art so that your art remains a personal reflection of yourself…something art collectors want more than anything.

Whether you produce art that integrates traditional and modern techniques or use digital media to reach a worldwide audience, you have never had greater opportunities to be part of the art scene. Let's celebrate these changes in trends and show how wonderful your art is during this crazy age!

Navigating Art Trends and Business in 2024: A Practical Guide for Artists