Key Points
- Christie's First AI-Generated Art Auction Generates $728,784
- 48% of bidders were Millennials and Generation Z
- 37% of participants were new to Christie's
- More than 30 lots of AI-generated artworks were presented
Christie’s held a groundbreaking auction on March 5, 2025 that marked a turning point in the history of digital art. The unprecedented event raised $728,784 , demonstrating the growing interest in art generated by artificial intelligence (AI) and redefining the standards of the art market.
Unprecedented Craze for Digital Art
The event attracted a wide range of collectors, including Millennials and Generation Z, who made up 48% of bidders. The strong turnout reflects a shift in art lovers’ preferences, with more and more art being driven by technology.
Furthermore, Christie's was able to attract a new audience: 37% of buyers were new collectors, confirming the growth and democratization of digital art on the international market.
Sales Record: Refik Anadol Headlines
The sale featured 34 lots, with Refik Anadol’s “Machine Hallucinations – ISS Dreams – A” taking the top spot. Selling for $277,200, well above its initial estimate of $150,000 to $200,000, the work illustrates the power of AI to transform data into captivating visual experiences.
Other artists who made their mark at the event included Holly Herndon and Mat Dryhurst , whose work " Embedding Study 1 & 2 " sold for $94,500, exceeding its high estimate.
However, despite these successes, 14 lots failed to find a buyer or were sold below expectations, further highlighting the instability of the AI-generated art market.
A Sale Under High Controversy
While this historic sale establishes AI as a legitimate artistic medium, it has not been without strong reactions in the art world. Many artists have expressed their discontent, denouncing the use of their works to train AI models without consent. An open letter signed by approximately 6,490 artists has been published, expressing concerns about copyright and the impact of AI on traditional creation.
Despite these controversies, AI-generated art continues to attract collectors: 75% of art buyers are willing to acquire works produced by AI , while 40% of artists already integrate it into their creative process .
The AI-powered art market is booming. Dedicated exhibitions have increased by 150% in one year , and experts estimate that the sector could reach $1 billion by 2025 .
Jean Dubreil