Can you still find affordable Warhols in today's art market?

One of the most common concerns I hear when discussing Blue Chip artists and their accessibility on the market is the notion that price points have skyrocketed beyond reach. Many believe that everything is prohibitively expensive, that the market has reached a peak and that it’s better to simply enjoy these masterpieces in a museum rather than consider buying them. With the current economic climate, even established collectors are becoming more cautious with their spending. This sentiment, of course, makes first-time collectors feel even more discouraged as if the doors to the art world were closed to them.

This is a grave misconception. While it’s true that the upper echelons of the market have seen some staggering prices, there are still many opportunities out there - especially if you have the right guidance. Art remains a diverse field, and with careful research and the assistance of a knowledgeable advisor, it is still possible to acquire works from even the most renowned artists without breaking the bank.

Take Andy Warhol, for example. Though his iconic silkscreen canvases fetch millions at auction, lesser-known works and limited edition prints remain affordable. These pieces offer a way to own a part of art history while making a smart investment. From topical works to rarer prints, there are gems at prices far more accessible than many assume. Here are a few examples:

Lesser known series 

Everybody knows about Andy Warhol's Marilyn series - but have you heard of Ladies and Gentlemen? Created in 1975, these 10 prints feature striking portraits of drag queens and transgender beauties, showcasing Warhol’s fascination with gender fluidity and identity. The series is notable for its vibrant colours and bold screen-printing techniques, capturing the essence of the 1970s New York City nightlife. While it might not have soared to the same level of fame as Warhol’s Campbell Soups upon release, their subject matter is as relevant as ever today - but value is on the rise. If you’re lucky, you may still be able to find one around the £10,000 mark. 

Prints in large edition sizes

A typical edition size for an Andy Warhol print usually ranges from 200 to 250 (excluding artist proofs, printer proofs, and trial proofs). Some, however, have significantly smaller or larger edition sizes, which dictates their rarity and value on the market. Warhol's Committee 2000, for example, has an unusually high edition size of 2,000 (easy to remember - the hint is in the title).  This print, commissioned for the Los Angeles Olympics, has steadily increased in value over the past 20 years. Recently, collectors have secured them at auction for as little as £6,000.

Authorised posters and wallpapers

Few people know that Andy Warhol’s now-iconic Cow posters were originally used as wallpaper for his retrospective at the Whitney Museum of American Art in 1971, covering entire walls in a repeating pattern, emphasizing his desire to merge art with everyday life and consumer culture. Similarly, Warhol also produced Mao wallpaper for various exhibitions (an entirely different project from his 10 Mao prints). Although originally not intended as collectable prints, these works have been elevated by consumer culture into valuable and highly sought-after assets. Unsigned Cow prints can still be found on the market for as little as £5,000, while Mao wallpaper pieces are available starting at £3,000.

So, is it possible to own a Warhol without spending millions? Absolutely. But as with anything in the art world, it requires the right approach - one that blends passion with strategy. And with the guidance of a trusted art advisor, navigating the market can reveal surprisingly accessible opportunities.