Letter from the Publishers

Canvas to Collector
Welcome to American Art Collector’s October issue! This month I will be speaking at a “lunch and learn” event for Oil Painters of America and their member artists. The topic is “Canvas to Collector: The Power of In-Person Buying.” Almost every day, we hear from collectors telling us about a piece they bought from a gallery or artist. Sometimes it is an online acquisition, but currently, in 2025, it is more often in-person at a gallery or a show. In fact, across the country we have been seeing record-breaking sales, at auctions, exhibitions and events. This is great for the art world. In 2020, online purchases were at an all-time high but virtual acquisitions have dropped 70 percent since then. This is not to say that online sales are not significant. Buying patterns are just changing.

Why? Here are a few telling reasons. First, AI has created a lot of real conversation and concern about purchasing art, jewelry and other luxury items online. We are more hesitant, so we really need to trust the person we are buying from in this day and age. Collectors who know their gallery and owner personally or attend a show in-person are much more confident in their purchases. Secondly, the amount of questionable news that circulates online is staggering, as we all have experienced. This is another cause for hesitation. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When it’s in print in American Art Collector you can believe and trust that our team has vetted the source, researched the artist, and has a verified relationship with gallerist, the artist and the artwork. This allows you to make your art purchase with confidence. Buy the art that makes you feel inspired. Learn about destinations to visit and upcoming shows to attend, and enjoy the sense of security that publications like ours are here to provide. This is the art world you belong in.

Managing editor Sarah Gianelli hit a home run this month with our Art Lover’s Guide to Collecting Fine Art in Charleston. It’s bigger and better than ever and if you are not planning a trip there already, you will be after reading this very special section.

This issue also contains our Collector’s Focus: Museums & Exhibitions which will acquaint you with local, regional and national museums and their upcoming shows of contemporary realism. Of course, there are 10-plus gallery shows and event previews waiting for you as well. Rest assured the power of the contemporary realism is alive and well in the world and inside this issue. Enjoy!

Wendie Martin and Adolfo Castillo

Publishers