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Auctions

top 5 emerging artists to watch at auction (updated february 24 2025)

By Alex Johnson

Published: 24 Feb 2025

My First Auction Frenzy

It all started innocently enough. A friend dragged me to a small-town auction, promising 'amazing finds.' I scoffed—auctions felt like something out of a dusty old movie. But, boy, was I wrong! The energy was electric, a mix of hushed anticipation and sudden, boisterous bidding wars. I snagged a quirky vintage lamp for a steal and was instantly hooked. That's when I realized the potential, the thrill of the hunt, and the unexpected stories hidden within each piece. This sparked my passion for emerging artists, and it made me start to wonder, who's next?

people bidding at an auction | Image: Supplied

1. Anya Petrova: Raw Emotion in Bold Strokes

I first encountered Anya's work at a smaller gallery in the East Village. Her canvases are explosions of color and texture—raw, visceral, and emotionally powerful. There's a recklessness to her style that’s captivating. Think abstract expressionism meets street art, but with a deeply personal touch. Her use of bold color palettes reflects intense feelings that aren't easy to ignore. Anya's pieces are already starting to fetch impressive prices, and I suspect her work will only increase in value. You can find out more about her on her website, though the address is a bit of a nightmare to remember... you'll have to search for it. It's worth it, I promise! Her prices are still relatively approachable, making this an excellent time to invest.

abstract expressionist painting | Image: Supplied

2. Javier Rodriguez: Surreal Landscapes of the Mind

Javier's work is a whole other trip! His surreal landscapes draw you into worlds that feel both familiar and utterly alien. He blends meticulous detail with a dreamlike quality. If you like Salvador Dali, but prefer a slightly more modern take (with less melting clocks!), you are going to love Javier Rodriguez. I bought one of his smaller pieces last year—a small investment at the time that is already showing promising returns. His pieces can run the gamut, from small affordable studies to large-scale works that demand serious coin. Keep an eye out for those early works; they're the real hidden gems!

surreal landscape painting | Image: Supplied

3. Mei Lin: Digital Dreamscapes

Mei Lin is pushing the boundaries of digital art. Her work is mesmerizing, often incorporating elements of nature with futuristic technology. It's almost like stepping into a vivid video game, one that is both breathtakingly beautiful and a little bit unnerving. She expertly uses light and shadow, building entire worlds within each piece. Many critics compare her work to early cyberpunk art, but I find it more poetic. What I truly like about her work is that it is not just visually appealing but also thought-provoking. I have a feeling that her works are going to be extremely valuable within a few years.

digital art landscape | Image: Supplied

4. Ben Carter: Sculptural Storytelling

Ben Carter's sculptures aren't just aesthetically pleasing; they tell stories. He uses found objects and repurposed materials—and it's pretty genius! His work evokes a sense of history, mystery, and often, a touch of dark humor. If you're looking for something truly unique and conversation-starting, I'd really recommend checking out Ben's work. There is a certain rawness in his creations, which I personally find really appealing. Expect to see his prices climb. It's a great time to add one of his sculptures to your collection, while they are still relatively affordable.

found object sculpture | Image: Supplied

5. Zara Khan: Geometric Abstraction Reimagined

Zara Khan's geometric abstractions aren't your grandma's Mondrian. She takes the classic geometric style and infuses it with energy and dynamism—her works are alive with motion. The use of bright colours, sharp angles and unexpected contrasts creates a truly dynamic and visually stunning outcome. Her paintings and sculptures command attention, prompting viewers to stop, stare, and think about the complex relationship between shape and space. And while she's already gained some attention, there's still room for growth, which makes her works highly desirable. What is more, she is actively looking to expand her collector base, so this may be your golden chance to invest!