10 iconic art pieces that define modern art investing

As the art market continues to evolve, investing in contemporary art has become increasingly popular. Collectors and investors are constantly on the lookout for emerging artists whose works have the potential for significant appreciation.\
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In this article, we will explore 10 iconic art pieces that define [modern art investing](https://hedonova.io/resources/blog/what-is-blue-chip-art-investing-in-blue-chip-art-in-2024). These artworks have not only gained critical acclaim but have also seen substantial increases in value over time.\
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Whether you're a seasoned collector or a novice investor, these art pieces are worth considering for your [investment portfolio](https://hedonova.io/portfolio/investing-in-art).

## 1. “Untitled” by Thomas Houseago  

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**Artist profile:** Thomas Houseago is a British contemporary artist known for his bold and expressive sculptures. His works often incorporate a mix of materials such as plaster, wood, hemp, and graphite. Houseago's sculptures, including the iconic piece "Untitled," have garnered international attention and have been exhibited in renowned galleries across the globe.

**Investment potential:** "Untitled" by Thomas Houseago was sold for £40,000 in 2019, exceeding its lower estimate by four times. The artist's rising reputation and market demand make his sculptures a promising investment option. As Houseago continues to gain recognition and exhibit in prestigious galleries, the value of his artworks is expected to increase.

## 2. “Portrait” by Nicolas Party

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-2.webp)

**Artist profile:** Nicolas Party, a Swiss-born American artist, is renowned for his vibrant and color-saturated paintings, murals, and sculptures. His distinctive style often features characters with enlarged heads and captivating eyes. Party's signing with Hauser & Wirth gallery, one of the most prestigious art galleries, has further elevated his status in the art world.

**Investment potential:** In 2019, one of Nicolas Party's paintings sold at auction for over $600,000, surpassing its lower estimate by a significant margin. This notable achievement demonstrates the growing demand for Party's artworks and suggests their potential for future appreciation.

## 3. “Zwitterschuh (Hermaphrodite Shoe)” by Birgit Jurgenssen  

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-3.webp)

**Artist profile:** Birgit Jurgenssen, an Austrian artist, is considered a pioneer of 20th-century feminist avant-garde art. Her diverse body of work includes photography, drawings, and paintings that challenge societal norms and explore sexual politics. Jurgenssen's thought-provoking artworks have left a lasting impact on the art world.\
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**Investment potential:** While Birgit Jurgenssen's artworks may not command astronomical prices, they hold significant historical and artistic value. As a pioneer of feminist art, her pieces are highly sought after by collectors and institutions focusing on gender studies and contemporary art.

## 4. “Phase of Nothingness - Cloth and Stone” by Nobuo Sekine  

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-4.webp)

**Artist profile:** Nobuo Sekine, a Japanese artist, was a prominent member of the Mono-ha group. This collective of Korean and Japanese sculptors experimented with the juxtaposition of natural and industrial materials. Sekine's sculptures, including "Phase of Nothingness - Cloth and Stone," were pivotal in shaping the artistic landscape of the 1960s and '70s.\
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**Investment potential:** Following Nobuo Sekine's representation of Japan at the Venice Biennale in 1970, his sculptures gained popularity in Europe. More recently, his artworks have been the focus of several exhibitions in America. With the increasing recognition of Mono-ha artists, Sekine's sculptures have the potential for significant appreciation.

## 5. “Ear on Fire” by Dana Schutz

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-5.webp)

**Artist profile:** Dana Schutz, an American artist, is known for her expressive and figurative paintings. Her works have been exhibited in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Whitney Museum. Schutz's thought-provoking and visually striking pieces have made her one of the most recognized names in contemporary art.

**Investment potential:** In 2019, one of Dana Schutz's paintings reached the $2 million mark at auction, far surpassing its estimate. This significant achievement highlights the potential investment value of Schutz's artworks. As her career continues to thrive, her paintings are expected to be appreciated further.

## 6. “Lady in Green” by Loie Hollowell

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-6.webp)

**Artist profile:** Loie Hollowell, an American artist, is known for her colorful and abstract paintings that explore the female anatomy. Her use of curvaceous motifs creates a unique visual language that resonates with viewers. Hollowell's artworks have been acquired by prestigious institutions, further solidifying her position in the art world.

**Investment potential:** Loie Hollowell's artworks have been collected by renowned institutions like the Arts Council England and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The artist's distinctive style and growing reputation make her paintings a compelling investment choice. As her career progresses, the value of her artworks is expected to appreciate.

## 7. "Manifesto" by Toyin Ojih Odutola

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-7.webp)

**Artist profile:** Toyin Ojih Odutola, a Nigerian-born artist, is celebrated for her intricate pen, pencil, and charcoal portraits. Her artworks explore themes of identity, race, and migration, reflecting her personal experiences. Ojih Odutola's thought-provoking and visually captivating pieces have garnered international acclaim.\
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**Investment potential:** In 2012, Toyin Ojih Odutola was listed as one of the '30 under 30' artists to watch by Forbes magazine. Her unique artistic style and powerful narratives have contributed to her growing recognition in the art world. Investing in Ojih Odutola's artworks offers the potential for significant appreciation.

## 8. “Untitled (Two Necklines)” by Lorna Simpson  

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-8.webp)

**Artist profile:** Lorna Simpson, an American artist, is known for her thought-provoking photography, video art, and collages. Inspired by her teacher, poet David Antin, Simpson developed her signature "photo-text" works. Her artworks, including "Untitled (Two Necklines)," explore themes of race, gender, and identity.

**Investment potential:** Lorna Simpson's artworks hold significant artistic and historical value. As a highly regarded artist, her pieces are sought after by collectors and institutions worldwide. Investing in Simpson's artworks not only offers potential financial gain but also contributes to the preservation of her artistic legacy.

## 9. “Sapphire” by Tschabalala Self  

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-9.webp)

**Artist profile:** Tschabalala Self, a New York-based artist, creates mixed media artworks that depict black female figures. Her vibrant and dynamic pieces challenge conventional notions of identity and representation. Self's artworks have been exhibited in prestigious institutions, cementing her status as a rising star in contemporary art.

**Investment potential:** As the youngest artist on our list, Tschabalala Self has already received recognition, such as the Joan Mitchell Foundation Painters & Sculptors Grant. Her unique artistic vision and powerful narratives make investing in Self's artworks a compelling opportunity for both financial gain and artistic appreciation.

## 10. “Gatorade” by Donna Huanca  

![](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/10%20Iconic%20art%20pieces%20that%20define%20modern%20art%20investing/10-Iconic-Art-Pieces-That-Define-Modern-Art-Investing-10.webp)

**Artist profile:** Donna Huanca, a Chicago-born artist, is known for her multidisciplinary approach, incorporating choreography, sound, and sculpture. Her artworks often feature the female body, challenging societal norms and exploring themes of identity and spirituality. Huanca's thought-provoking exhibitions have captivated audiences worldwide.

**Investment potential:** Donna Huanca's artworks, such as "Gatorade," are not only visually captivating but also reflect the artist's unique artistic voice. As her career continues to evolve, investing in Huanca's artworks provides an opportunity to support an emerging artist while potentially experiencing appreciation in value.

## The bottom line

Investing in contemporary art can be a rewarding venture that not only offers potential financial gain but also allows you to support and engage with the vibrant world of contemporary artists.\
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The 10 iconic art pieces highlighted in this article represent a diverse range of artistic styles and themes that have resonated with collectors and investors alike. Whether you choose to invest in established artists like Dana Schutz or emerging talents like Tschabalala Self, carefully considering the potential of each artwork and artist can lead to a rewarding and valuable investment.\
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Remember, the art market is constantly evolving, and staying informed about emerging artists and trends is crucial for making informed investment decisions.

Explore the world of contemporary art investment with this guide to 10 iconic art pieces that have gained both critical acclaim and substantial value over time. From renowned artists like Dana Schutz and Lorna Simpson to emerging talents like Tschabalala Self and Donna Huanca, discover the investment potential of each artwork and artist. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a novice investor, these art pieces offer a diverse range of styles and themes worth considering for your investment portfolio. Learn about the artists behind each masterpiece, their unique artistic visions, and the investment opportunities they present in this comprehensive guide to contemporary art investment.

10 iconic art pieces that define modern art investing

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