A survey by PwC found that 88% of U.S. companies plan to increase AI budgets, and the art world is following suit. The article explores how AI is infiltrating the art market beyond controversial authentication and IP issues, covering topics like autonomous agents, data privacy, logistics partnerships (Carpenters Workshop Gallery with Convelio), and new AI-powered search tools being developed by Artnet using Google's Gemini. It also notes that collector Jorge Pérez used AI assistance to acquire 24 works at Art Basel in Basel.
This matters because the traditionally slow-to-digitize art industry is now rapidly adopting AI, which could reshape everything from shipping logistics to how collectors discover and buy art. However, the sector's emphasis on discretion poses challenges for AI tools that may expose confidential data. The development of AI assistants by major players like Artnet and Art Basel signals a fundamental shift in market operations, potentially making art buying more data-driven while still relying on personal taste.