Turning Point: Reigniting The Flame (2013)-2015
Following an extended period of uncertainty in the early 2000s, 2013 marked a turning point in India's art market. At a Christie's auction in Mumbai that year, an unprecedented sale by V.S. Gaitonde for Rs 23.7 crore (approximately USD 3.8 million at current exchange rates in 2013) led to an 13% compound annual growth rate indicating steady rises in artwork valuations [6]. Moneycontrol reported on these trends here (https://moneycontrol.com/news/trends/india-2023-digital-works-steal-march-on-traditional-art-10050071.html).
Initial excitement was dampened during 2014-2015 by a period of caution in which buyer interest continued, yet growth rates moderated slightly; according to art advisory firm AAFM India's report, compound annual growth rates declined from an initial CAGR rate of over 10% down to approximately 7% during this time. [6] This suggests a period of consolidation as stakeholders assessed its new trajectory.
Soaring High: A Decade of Growth (2016-2023).
2016 marked a sustained period of growth for India's art market. International auction houses like Sotheby's and Christie's hosted major sales across India, drawing collectors in large numbers. According to a 2023 report by Grant Thornton Bharat and Indian Art Investor, auction turnover grew 265% between FY 2013-2023 (grantthornton.in/press-room/indian-art-market-witnesses-a-successful-year-with-usd-144.3-million) [5].
This growth was paralleled by an increase in artwork sales. According to data, auction sales increased 6% year-on-year [5]. This growth indicates an expanding market, where established artists as well as newcomers are all finding recognition for their works.
Furthermore, auction sales of artworks have seen an unprecedented surge. Grant Thornton Bharat and Indian Art Investor's "State of the Indian Art Market Report FY23" revealed that mean auction estimate for FY 2023 stood at USD 93.1 million [5]. This surge from pre-2013 represents collectors' increased willingness to invest in high-value Indian art pieces.
Diversifying Landscape: Moving Beyond Auction Houses (2013)-2023
Over the last decade, India's art market has evolved beyond traditional auction houses. Online platforms like SaffronArt and Art Positive have played a crucial role in expanding access to art for new buyers as well as established collectors worldwide.
This shift to online platforms can be seen through increasing sell-through rates at auctions, with Grant Thornton Bharat and Indian Art Investor reporting an astounding 90.4% sell-through rate for FY 2023 [5.] This indicates strong interest for Indian art in both the physical space as well as online venues.
A Collector's Paradise: Shifting Preferences (2013-2023)
Over the past decade, India's art market has witnessed a shift in collector demographics. While established collectors continue to play an integral part, there has been an increased interest among younger collectors who often embrace technology and seek affordable art that resonates with contemporary sensibilities [2]. (India's Art Market Is Thriving--Here's Why | Artsy)
This trend can be seen through the rising popularity of emerging artists while Modern Masters like M.F. Keeler remain revered.
