9 Art Advisors Share Strategies for Navigating a Down Art Market
CULTURED magazine recently showcased insights from nine Power Advisors for 2026 on how to navigate the art market during challenging times. Advisors from key cities, including Los Angeles, New York, London, Seattle, and Chicago, offered various strategies ranging from proactive acquisitions to careful evaluations. Nancy Gamboa (Los Angeles) advises looking for hidden opportunities, while Beaumont Nathan (New York, London) suggests reassessing family art collections. Candace Worth (New York) highlights the importance of engaging with artists and keeping records current. Aileen Agopian (New York) sees slower price trends as advantageous. Rachel Greene (Seattle) cautions against impulsive purchases but advocates for dedication to particular artists. Philip Hoffman (London) believes it’s an ideal time to invest in art with the right advisor. Laura Lester (Chicago) recalls a 2025 experience with shorter waitlists, and Esthella Provas (Los Angeles) encourages pursuing sought-after pieces.
Key facts
- Nine art advisors from CULTURED's 2026 Power Advisors list shared advice for collectors during a down market.
- Advisors include Nancy Gamboa (Los Angeles), Beaumont Nathan (New York and London), Candace Worth (New York), Aileen Agopian (New York), Rachel Greene (Seattle), Philip Hoffman (London), Laura Lester (Chicago), and Esthella Provas (Los Angeles).
- Nancy Gamboa advises looking for overlooked opportunities, including in-demand works that become more accessible and privately held works on the secondary market.
- Beaumont Nathan suggests reassessing family collections from curatorial and commercial perspectives during downturns.
- Candace Worth recommends continuing to focus on artists of interest and using the time to update insurance and databases.
- Aileen Agopian notes that less competition and softened prices allow for more selective and strategic buying, and that galleries notice consistent engagement and prompt payment.
- Rachel Greene mentions a client who owns many Yuskavage paintings and would never turn away an opportunity to buy her work.
- Philip Hoffman states it's the best time to buy art, but with a great advisor.
- Laura Lester experienced shortened waiting lists in early 2025, allowing her to find works for clients they had pursued for years.
- Esthella Provas advises finding pieces you always wanted but could not afford.
Entities
Artists
- Nancy Gamboa
- Beaumont Nathan
- Candace Worth
- Aileen Agopian
- Rachel Greene
- Philip Hoffman
- Laura Lester
- Esthella Provas
- Yuskavage
Institutions
- CULTURED
Locations
- Los Angeles
- New York
- London
- Seattle
- Chicago