How Much is Modern British Art Worth?

Modern British Art refers to paintings, sculptures, works on paper and ceramics that have been created from the 1880s onwards. Ranging from early British Modernism to the present day, it encompasses a number of movements including Neo-Romanticism, British Pop Art, The Bloomsbury Group, British Surrealism, Cornish Abstraction, the School of London, Vorticism, Constructivism, and the Camden Town Group.

This type of art has been somewhat overlooked as an investment in the past, but as tastes change so too has the market. Since the early 1990s demand and value have been steadily growing and appreciating, collectors will have witnessed a noticeable increase in values for their collections. Certain works are coming to the market for the first time, having often been purchased directly from the artist and kept within the same family or with the original owner. This iron clad provenance can be another attractive feature of Modern British Art.

^{Sir Kyffin Williams R.A. (British, 1918-2006) 'Welsh Mountainous Landscape'}

^{Sold for £16,000}

Popular Modern British artists include John Piper, Kyffin Williams, Donald McIntyre, Paul Nash and Ivon Hitchens famous for their landscapes, Mary Fedden for her still life creations, and Laurence Stephen Lowry for his scenes of life in the industrial districts and matchstick men.

In-demand sculptors include Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson, Lynn Chadwick, Elisabeth Frink, and Henry Moore, together with abstract artists including William Scott, Patrick Heron, Jeremy Moon, Terry Frost and Victor Pasmore.

^{Barbara Hepworth DBE (1903-1975) British, 'Two Forms (Atlantic)'}

^{Sold for £36,000}

Other notable artists in this category are William Roberts (English Cubist), Walter Sickert (post-impressionist), Julian Trevelyan (Surrealist), Lucian Freud (portraits), Peter Blake (Pop art) and Bridget Riley (Op art).

Contemporary artists such as Banksy and Grayson Perry, as well as YBA (Young British Artists) Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin have enjoyed great success and recognition in their careers and continue to be active.

^{Dame Elisabeth Frink (1930 - 1993), 'Study of the Artist's Dog'}

^{Sold for £18,000}

With so many talented artists featured in this category it is important to understand the need of expert guidance when looking to ascertain the market value of Modern British Art, especially when considering that values range from under £100 through to millions of pounds. Here at Dawsons, we have a friendly team of specialist valuers who would be only too happy to provide expert guidance.

^{Donald McIntyre, RCA, (1925-2009), 'Early Snow'}

^{Sold for £9,800}

With excellent prices being achieved at auction, this is encouraging for new investors and seasoned collectors alike. The opportunity to curate a collection that reflects your own individual tastes and passion has never been more attainable. From traditional British landscapes to abstract expressions, there is something for every enthusiast’s discerning taste. The Modern British Art market is proving to be strong, growing and rapidly changing, with the potential for very healthy returns.

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British Art in the 20th Century

Are you considering selling any Modern British Art?

With a global audience of millions, Dawsons can achieve the best price for you at auction.

Please get in touch with an expert valuer today for sales advice, we would be delighted to help:

0207 431 9445 / info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk