Art Collections & Estate Planning: Why it’s Time to Get Proactive

Canadian Family Offices
By Mary Teresa Bitti
August 14th, 2026

There is a growing realization that art collections are becoming more valuable over time and families are starting to take a more holistic view of their wealth overall

The unprecedented global intergenerational wealth transfer continues to build momentum, with an anticipated $15 trillion expected to change hands over the next 10 years. Deloitte, in its latest Art & Finance Report, estimates that art and collectibles will represent nearly $1 trillion of this transfer.  

While significant wealth transfer between the generations in ultra-high-net-worth families is not new, what has changed is just how rapidly wealth has accumulated over the past 10 years, including in the value of art collections.  

There are a few key options to transfer art to the next generation outside a will, mitigating taxable capital gains and probate fees. Here’s what to consider and why it’s time to get proactive…