The Enduring Art of American Women

Letter from the Publishers

Welcome to the November/December issue of American Fine Art Magazine! As we close out the year, we reflect on historic American art through the lens of collecting and the lasting significance of the works we bring into our lives. The latest UBS Global Art Market Report offers an encouraging backdrop: U.S. historic and contemporary art sales increased 5% in 2026, reaching $26 billion and accounting for 44% of the global art market by value. That is no small feat and reinforces America’s position as the leader of the international art market.

Among the standout historic American art auction results in 2026 were two paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe: From the Old Garden No. I, 1924, which achieved $13,055,000, and Inside Clam Shell, 1930, which sold for $8,904,000. These impressive results offer a fitting introduction to this issue’s Collector’s Focus on Historic Women Artists, which begins on Page 62. O’Keeffe remains one of America’s most beloved artists, yet hers is only one of the remarkable stories worth exploring. As we discover, curate and collect historic American art, women artists captivate collectors with their distinctive perspectives and contributions to our cultural history. We celebrate their works this issue and invite you to look more closely at the past and appreciate the breadth of American artistic achievement.

Sarah Gianelli has given particular attention to these women of the past. In her editor’s letter on the next page, she highlights the women artists whose work caught her attention in this issue. I hope her reflections encourage you to discover an unfamiliar name or deepen your appreciation for a longtime favorite. Throughout these pages, you will also find coverage of nearly 20 museum exhibitions, and previews of gallery and antique shows, and auctions that will fill the end of 2026 with plenty of opportunities for art lovers. This magazine is your guide when it comes to exploring, learning and adding a meaningful artwork to your collection.

May you and your family enjoy a joyful holiday season, and may beautiful historic art be part of your holiday plans. Enjoy!

Wendie Martin and Adolfo Castillo
Publishers

On the Cover
Jane Peterson (1876-1965), White, Red, and Pink Peonies in a Blue Vase.Oil on canvas, 46 x 35 in. Available at Gallery Montanaro, Rockport, MA.