Investing in Art: 10 British Artists to Watch in 2024 and 2025

Looking for new art investment opportunities for 2025? We’ve got you covered. Today, we dive deeper into the thriving British art scene, picking the most talented emerging artists to watch for the upcoming years. Whether you’re an experienced investor or just starting your art investment portfolio, here are the top UK names to keep on your radar. 

Top 10 UK Emerging Artists to Watch in Upcoming Years

1. Josh Gluckstein

A social-media sensation, Gluckstein’s life-sized animal sculptures crafted from recycled cardboard are as sustainable as they are visually striking. His ability to engage global audiences through TikTok has made him a favourite for collectors focusing on eco-conscious and impactful art.

2. Richard Ayodeji Ikhide

Ikhide’s dream-like art merges Nigerian cultural heritage with modern references such as manga and video games. His work’s surreal quality and rich storytelling have captivated collectors globally, with recent exhibitions selling out rapidly.

3. Patrick Walls

Specialising in public sculptures and minimalist 3D artworks, Walls explores themes like "air and water" through meticulously carved stone and cast metal. His sculptures balance natural and industrial aesthetics, making his work a compelling addition to urban spaces and private collections.

4. Jadé Fadojutimi

Represented by Gagosian London, Fadojutimi is a rising star in abstract painting. Her vibrant, layered works, blending pop art influences with symbolism, have seen rapid market growth. Pieces by her have consistently sold out at major art fairs.

5. Graham Crowley

Winner of the 2023 John Moores Painting Prize, Crowley’s textured works reimagine the British landscape tradition. His focus on mark-making and abstraction creates a rich visual language that appeals to collectors seeking timeless yet modern pieces.

6. Lydia Blakeley

Blakeley’s paintings offer a tongue-in-cheek critique of internet culture and British traditions. Her sun-bleached, retro aesthetic captures the quirks of modern life, making her works highly relatable and collectable.

7. Dominique White

Winner of the Max Mara Prize for Women (2022-2024), White’s haunting sculptures blend found materials with themes of Afro-pessimism and black subjectivity. And while young, her major 2024 solo show at Whitechapel Gallery has already cemented her status as a leading voice in contemporary art. 

8. Louise Giovanelli

Known for her luminous oil paintings, Giovanelli bridges hyper-realism and abstraction. Drawing inspiration from Old Masters, her works offer a feminist reinterpretation of classic art forms, making her one of the most sought-after artists of 2024 - the trend that will likely continue in 2025. 

9. Martyn Cross

Cross creates dreamy, uncanny paintings that merge medieval influences with sci-fi aesthetics. His meticulous approach to pigment and narrative creates immersive pieces that are both nostalgic and futuristic.

10. Victor Seaward

A pioneer of sustainability in art, Seaward creates surreal 3D sculptures using PETG materials and 3D printing. His pieces challenge perceptions of presence and absence, combining durability with thought-provoking design.

Why Are These Artists Worth Watching?

The ten artists we've spotlighted represent not only diverse artistic practices but also compelling stories and bold visions for the future of contemporary art. Here’s why they deserve your attention in 2025 and beyond:

Diverse Mediums and Techniques

One of the most exciting things about those artists is their ability to push boundaries within their chosen mediums. From Graham Crowley's deeply textured oil paintings that reimagine traditional landscapes to Victor Seaward's intricate 3D-printed sculptures using sustainable materials, these creators redefine how we perceive and interact with art. 

Their works speak to both technical prowess and the readiness to innovate, ensuring their relevance in an ever-changing art market.

Sustainability and Innovation

As environmental consciousness grows, many collectors are drawn to artists who incorporate sustainability into their work. Josh Gluckstein's life-sized animal sculptures, crafted from recycled cardboard, and Victor Seaward's PETG-based creations highlight the intersection of eco-conscious practices and fine art. 

By investing in these artists, collectors can align with global efforts to promote environmental responsibility while acquiring pieces of undeniable aesthetic value.

Cultural and Historical Resonance

Artists like Richard Ayodeji Ikhide and Dominique White delve into profound cultural narratives, creating works that connect deeply with historical and contemporary issues. 

Ikhide's art draws from Nigerian heritage, manga, and sci-fi to craft surreal, multi-layered storytelling, while White's sculptural installations explore themes of Afro-pessimism and black subjectivity. These artists enrich the cultural dialogue, making their works highly sought after by collectors who value art with a narrative depth.

Proven Market Appeal

Beyond their artistic merits, these creators have demonstrated clear market traction. Several have received prestigious awards or been represented by top-tier galleries. 

For example, Jadé Fadojutimi’s vibrant abstract paintings have consistently sold out at major fairs, while Louise Giovanelli’s blend of hyper-realism and abstraction has earned her global recognition. These accomplishments indicate not just talent but also a rising demand for their work, making them promising investment opportunities.

How to Find the Best Up-and-Coming British Artists?

Although these ten emerging British artists are definitely worth keeping an eye out for in 2025, the UK art landscape is thriving with up-and-coming artists who also deserve plenty of attention. Here’s how you can pinpoint them:

• Embrace Innovation. Seek out artists who bring fresh perspectives to traditional techniques or explore uncharted territory with unconventional materials. This originality often sets them apart and signals potential longevity in their careers.

• Look for Consistency. Pay attention to artists who consistently deliver high-quality work. A recognisable style across their portfolio demonstrates both technical mastery and artistic dedication, essential traits for building a sustainable reputation.

• Look Into Educational Foundations. Graduates from prestigious art schools often have a solid foundation in art history and practice. Look to institutions like Central Saint Martins, Goldsmiths, the Royal Academy of Arts, the Slade School of Fine Art, and Kingston School of Arts for new talent. 

• Awards and Industry Recognition. Artists who gain accolades or feature in high-profile exhibitions and competitions, such as The Future Generation Art Prize, John Moores Painting Prize, or Frieze Artist Award, often stand out for their talent and market potential.

• Consult with Experts. Partnering with a reputable art consultancy is an effective way to discover emerging talent. Professional art advisors leverage their networks and expertise to identify artists poised for growth, helping you build a diverse and valuable collection.

A Thriving Investment Opportunity

The intersection of innovation, sustainability, cultural relevance, and proven market appeal makes these artists stand out in the contemporary art scene. 

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to investing in art, this is the right moment to explore their works. Investing in these artists isn’t just about financial returns - it’s about supporting the voices shaping the cultural landscape of tomorrow.

Become one of the investors shaping the future of art. Join Splint Invest today and invest in emerging artists for a fraction of the cost. 

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