Trending Artists

Rising Stars

Emerging artists, or Ultra Contemporary artists, are those in the early stages of their careers who have caught the eye of curators, critics and galleries but have yet to establish a long-term reputation. The term Rising Stars describes these emerging artists who have managed to step onto the big stage of the art world, quickly gaining national or international recognition. Adam Pendleton and Otis Kwame Kye Quaicoe are prime examples for artists who are rapidly gaining prominence. Pendleton’s conceptual approach, integrating text, image, and abstraction, has garnered critical acclaim, leading to exhibitions in renowned institutions like the Museum of Modern Art. His project “Who Is Queen?” exemplifies his innovative fusion of media to explore themes of Black identity and history. Quaicoe’s vivid, emotive portraits of Black figures have struck a chord with both critics and collectors, positioning him as a significant new voice in contemporary art.

Mid-Career Artists in the Spotlight

Mid-career artists have created an independent body of work over several years or decades and received widespread recognition through publications or public presentations. They have had solo exhibitions at significant galleries and museums nationally and internationally. Julie Mehretu and Jenny Holzer are prime examples of trending mid-career artists who are currently enjoying increased levels of attention in the art world.

Mehretu’s large-scale abstract paintings and  prints explore themes of history, geopolitics, and social movements, often incorporating intricate layers of mark-making that challenge traditional notions of space and time. Her works are featured in major museums worldwide, maintaining her relevance and appeal across diverse audiences. Holzer, known for her provocative use of text in public spaces, continues to captivate audiences with her socially charged installations, addressing pressing global issues such as human rights, political propaganda, and gender inequality. Through these powerful works, she remains at the forefront of contemporary discourse, demonstrating the lasting impact mid-career artists can have on both the art world and society at large.

Artists Moving Up a Tier

This group includes trending artists transitioning between career stages—from emerging to mid-career to established/blue-chip artists—experiencing a significant rise in recognition and value. Typically, this ascent is manifested by an increase in exhibitions, publications, media attention, and art market prices. Eddie Martinez, for instance, has recently moved from rising star to mid-career artist. His vibrant, gestural artworks have attracted significant market interest and institutional recognition, solidifying his place in the art world. As another example, Georg Baselitz is currently transitioning from mid-career to blue-chip status. Known for his pioneering role in German Neo-Expressionism, Baselitz’s paintings and prints are increasingly in demand, securing his legacy as a cornerstone of contemporary art.

The Journey to Blue-Chip Status

For an artist, achieving blue-chip status – a term used to describe those with high market value, institutional recognition, and consistent demand – requires years of dedication, strategy, and artistic evolution. The journey often begins with critical acclaim and gallery representation, as emerging artists gain traction through exhibitions, residencies, and art fairs.

Mid-career artists who sustain their momentum typically expand their collector base, secure placements in major museums, and receive curatorial and academic validation. Auction success and secondary market activity further cement an artist’s status, signaling long-term investment potential.

Beyond commercial success, trending artists who achieve blue-chip status shape cultural discourse, influencing contemporary themes and art movements. Figures like Damien Hirst and Ed Ruscha exemplify this transition, having moved from respected mid-career artists to globally recognized icons. Achieving blue-chip status is not just about sales – it’s about cultural impact, longevity, and institutional endorsementthat elevate an artist into art history.