ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Contemporary art market slowdown contrasts with Gulf War era collector psychology

opinion-review · 2026-04-17

The contemporary art market is experiencing a significant slowdown, described as unprecedented in its nature. This current downturn differs markedly from the period during the First Gulf War in 1990. At that time, collectors maintained a strong desire to purchase art, but their spending was constrained by a weak economy. Today's market conditions present a different psychological landscape for collectors, where the fundamental 'want to want' appears diminished. The analysis suggests a shift in collector motivation beyond mere economic factors.

Key facts

  • The contemporary art market is slowing down.
  • The slowdown is considered unprecedented.
  • The First Gulf War occurred in 1990.
  • During the 1990 Gulf War, collectors still wanted to buy art.
  • The economy was weak during the 1990 Gulf War.
  • The weak economy restrained collectors from buying in 1990.
  • The current market situation is different from 1990.
  • The article discusses collector psychology and desire.

Entities

Institutions

  • Le Journal des Arts

Sources