FX.co ★ Five most expensive contemporary artists

Jeff Koons

Today, American artist Jeff Koons is among the top three most influential art personalities in the world. He held his first exhibition in 1980. Since then, his works have been constantly displayed in leading museums and galleries worldwide. Koons is often compared to Andy Warhol, as his art is also characterized by vibrant colors, simplicity of meaning, and a close connection with popular culture. Among his most valuable works are the sculpture "Balloon Dog," sold for $58 million, and "Rabbit," which set a record at $91 million.

David Hockney

British artist David Hockney is hailed as a classic figure in pop art. Although he has experimented with various directions, it's his paintings in this genre that have brought him worldwide fame. Hockney is also celebrated for his dedication to two narrative lines, often painting swimming pools and interior portraits, which regularly set auction records. His most expensive work to date is "Portrait of an Artist," sold for $90 million.

Gerhard Richter

This German artist is often compared to Pablo Picasso, as Gerhard Richter has experimented with a wide variety of genres – photo-realism, minimalism, abstract expressionism, and many others – just like the Spanish genius. Today, his works are exhibited in leading museums across Europe and the world and enjoy great success at auctions. In 2015, his painting "Cloud," created in the 1970s, was sold for $6 million, and "Abstract Painting," made in the mid-1980s, went for $46 million.

Peter Doig

British artist Peter Doig is recognized as a master of figurative painting and a pioneer of a movement known as metamodernism. Since his work was first introduced to the public in 1991, Doig has held more than fifty solo exhibitions. His paintings are displayed in the most prestigious galleries and are highly sought after by private collectors. His most valuable painting, "Rosedale," was sold in 2017 for $28 million.

Zeng Fanzhi

Zeng Fanzhi is a key figure in contemporary Chinese art. His works, imbued with deep psychology and expression, explore human emotions and experiences. The artist is known for his original reinterpretation of works by European masters. In particular, his interpretation of Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" brought Zeng Fanzhi not only widespread recognition but also financial success. In 2013, the painting was sold at auction for more than $23 million.