The world of art and painting is a ridiculously expensive world to be living in. Paintings sell in the millions, and many people who are thus enabled, use it as a future investment. People are employed by such individuals to scour for new talent and invest in them, in hopes that they become famous in the future.
The art world is also increasing by leaps and bounds. Sculptures and figurines sell for ludicrous amounts, only to end up in a private collection which nobody else will ever see. Art is meant for the world to appreciate, and a private collection kind of spoils the point. Most such collectors have no appreciation for art, and use it simply as an investment.