Pictured: the fall 2025 cover of CGN featuring art by Jacqueline Surdell

To subscribe to receive a print copy of the fall 2025 issue of CGN click here.

By GINNY VAN ALYEA

I say it regularly, but I am an optimist. I am not, however oblivious. I have worked at CGN for 23 years, through many market ups and downs, neighborhood changes, art fair evolutions and more. I go back through Chicago’s art world history often, and when I look to CGN’s founding in 1982, we have weathered a lot. I have been privy to several conversations this year about the current art market’s slower sales, high overhead and tightening margins. One question looms largest: where is the next generation of collectors?

Today’s likely pool of art buyers doesn’t hesitate to snap up concert tickets or plane tickets. They go big for innovative experiences and dining instead of acquiring a lot of ‘stuff.’ However, plenty of people engage with artists on Instagram and tune in to the world’s current events through a conceptual lens. A young generation’s buying power has the potential for lasting impact: to put it in perspective, a month’s worth of $30 salads and $15 smoothies could instead be $800 towards a work on paper by a young artist. Thoughtful saving and spending can start an art collection, launch an artist’s career and sustain a new gallery. 

The money is out there. And so is the generational engagement. New collectors will still emerge—not from traditional wealth pipelines, but from creative industries, tech, and mission-driven professions. Entry-level collecting often begins with drawings, prints, photography, emerging art—mostly (hopefully) under $5,000. It also begins with love–when you find something you just have to have and will cherish for years to come. Also like falling in love, art shouldn’t be a trophy, it is a commitment—to the person who created it, and also a declaration to yourself to live with art and explore it. 

The art world is working towards meeting collectors where they currently are–improving pricing transparency and online buying, offering flexible payment options and outreach. Events that prioritize education, access and fun—not just exclusivity—go a long way towards making any potential buyer feel welcomed rather than intimidated. And buyers need to spend the time, speak up, and ask questions. Long-term sustainability means collectors and galleries supporting each other. This will depend not just on high-net-worth clients, but on broader audiences who see collecting as part of their cultural life—not just as luxury. 

This fall issue of CGN offers so many ways to discover and engage with art, from reading about our cover artist Jacqueline Surdell's September exhibition at Secrist | Beach, to following contributor Susan Gescheidle on her journeys to new and upcoming spaces. We interviewed Melissa Weber and Jay Dandy about their shared passion for supporting local artists and we also asked other area collectors to share their own stories and lessons. We also spoke with five people in the art world to see what they are looking forward to. And we have put together lists of highlights happening this season, from the return of Chicago Exhibition Weekend to a slate of dynamite exhibitions, art fundraisers and galas you won't want to miss.

Future collectors–we know you’re out there and we encourage you to partake! CGN is always here as a friendly resource. We welcome you to the art world!

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To subscribe to receive a print copy of the fall 2025 issue of CGN click here.

Read CGN's fall 2025 cover interview with artist Jacqueline Surdell here

Top cover image: Jacqueline Surdell, Suddenly, she was hell-bent and ravenous (after Giotto), 2024. Nylon cord, steel, polyester fabric, steel spool top, steel chain and meat hooks. 65 (body) x 252 (pole to pole) x 7 inches.