The saying “for every season, there’s a reason” seems to be spot-on these days when it comes to those looking for antiques, vintage and collectible items. The Asheford Institute (AIA), a professional-level distance-learning program related to the study of antiques, appraising and the decorative arts, recently released the results of its annual in-depth 2018 survey of trends and movements within the antiques and collectibles marketplace. The school’s poll includes a yearly compilation of statistics from a sampling of over eighteen hundred students and graduates who are actively engaged within the business side of the decorative arts community.
Asheford, which has been conducting the industry related survey for over ten years now, says it uploads the poll results every January to the school’s web site for review and dissection. According to Sharon Tomey, one of the Institute’s chief strategists for compiling the raw data, the primary focus of the survey has always been towards gauging meaningful interest by the public regarding current and popular trends related to the antiques, vintage and retro inspired marketplace. She says, “Our results are based on actual sales and requests for particular items.”
As in past years, the Asheford poll seems to note the unabated move towards modernism in collecting. “Mid-Century is still very much the thing,” said Tomey, “but we’re beginning to see that movement spread out into other fields as well.”
Also of interest for many who participated in the survey was the general consensus by a number of storeowners that there was definitely a younger vibe to the shopping experience than ever before. Poll participant Mike Schol said, “I’ve been selling antiques and vintage for twenty-years and I’ve never seen so many young folks into thrifting and vintage. It’s definitely a good sign.”
While Sharon Tomey cautions people not to read too much into such anecdotal tales, she does acknowledge that, on average, store owners are beginning to notice a younger demographic appearing than before. She said,” Whether or not this will last remains to be seen, but it’s certainly encouraging.”
Some of the other movers-and-shakers from this year’s poll included vintage fashions and textiles—which had a strong showing over previous years—as well as costume and vintage jewelry that continued its surge in popularity and price. Other notable stalwarts included toys—specifically Star Wars items—and American Western memorabilia, all of which drew high-ticket prices according to many of the survey’s respondents.
Readers wanting to view the full results of the school’s 2018 survey can find them online at: https://www.asheford.com/2018-survey-results.html.
To learn more about the antiques and appraisal study program being offered by the Institute, you can email asheford@mail.com or visit www.asheford.com. You can also write to the Asheford Institute of Antiques 981 Harbor Blvd., Suite 3, Dept. 275RDK7 Destin, FL 32541-2525, or to the Canadian office at 131 Bloor Street West, Suite 200, Dept. 124RDK8 Toronto, ON M5S 1R8.