Let's be honest: when you hear about the art market in the news, it often sounds like another world - six-figure auctions, record-breaking sales, and names that only seem to appear in museum plaques. But the real story is much broader, more diverse, and, in many ways, more accessible than ever.
At Galería Cortina, we want to bring that story closer to you - the collector who's curious, strategic, and guided by both taste and long-term thinking. Let's take a look at what's really happening in the contemporary art market in 2025, especially in the secondary market.
A MARKET FULL OF NUANCE (AND OPPORTUNITY)
The contemporary art market continues to evolve. While top-tier works still capture headlines, there's growing energy in a more agile segment: artworks under €50,000. Why? Because they offer a balance between access and potential.
Many of these works, whether originals or limited editions, belong to artists who are already internationally established or gaining serious momentum. What makes this segment especially attractive is its potential for higher relative returns, particularly when handled through the right channels: personalized guidance, strategic timing, and private sales outside the glare of public auctions. This is where Galería Cortina stands apart - we believe in moving beyond the long shadow cast by major auction houses, which often distort the perception of the entire art market.
Let's reframe the idea: a work of art doesn't need an astronomical price tag to hold value. What truly matters is the artist's trajectory, how the work circulates, and its resonance within a transparent, informed, and global market context.
At Galería Cortina, we believe in a collecting experience built on trust. That's why our pricing reflects the real market - fair, clear, and grounded. Our approach is consultative, not just transactional. We don't simply sell a piece and move on; we walk alongside each collector, offering guidance and perspective at every step.
WHERE ARE THE SMART COLLECTORS LOOKING?
Not every valuable acquisition needs to be a large-scale canvas or a six-figure masterpiece. Many seasoned collectors - and those just starting out - are turning their attention to works on paper, mixed media, and limited editions, especially those created in short runs or with strong curatorial relevance.
These types of works often offer accessible entry points without sacrificing depth, originality, or market potential. They're versatile, easier to place, and in many cases, more agile when it comes to future resale or repositioning within a collection.
At Galería Cortina, we see growing interest in carefully selected pieces that offer just the right balance between visual power, authenticity, and price. When chosen with care, even smaller formats or less conventional mediums can become the cornerstone of a thoughtful collection - or the beginning of one.
THE SECONDARY MARKET: A SPACE OF DISCOVERY AND STRATEGY
Unlike the primary market, where prices are fixed, the secondary market allows for negotiation, context, and perspective. You can evaluate trends, track past sales, and compare positioning. That makes it ideal for collectors who want to combine aesthetic passion with a bit of market intelligence.
SO, WHERE DO YOU START?
The key is to move with curiosity, but also with clarity. Not everything under €50,000 is a hidden gem - but many gems do live in that range. And with the right advice, you can spot them before they rise beyond reach.
At Galería Cortina, we work hand-in-hand with collectors to identify works with real appreciation potential, emotional impact, and long-term value.
Interested in discovering artworks that combine beauty, strategy, and future growth? Reach out to us. We're here to help you build a collection that reflects your taste, your timing, and your vision.
