“Sotheby’s Institute of Art’s intensive art
history courses and insider’s access to the world
of contemporary art gave me the extensive
scholarly background and the professional savvy
I needed to find a full-time job directly upon
finishing coursework. I am so grateful for the
experience I had at Sotheby’s Institute of Art
and can think of no better or quicker way to feel
entirely prepared for the professional art world.” Kristin Nelson Contemporary Art, 2008
Development Assistant,
Independent Curators International
The programme in Contemporary Art provides
an in-depth analysis of works of art from
the post-war period to the present. Emphasis is
given to the objects themselves and to the approach and the interpretation of the art in this period.
In addition to lectures and seminars,
the curriculum includes weekly visits to galleries,
museums and private collections in New
York and further afield, both nationally and
internationally.
The programme enables students
to combine academic prowess with
professional skills, preparing them
for a successful career in the arts. It encompasses all genres of contemporary art
including painting, sculpture, time-based
and new media, as well as performance and
ephemeral work.
This dynamic MA programme prepares graduates
to pursue a variety of careers in the
art world, from work in commercial
galleries, private collections, museums
and foundations, to the establisment of independent
galleries, to work as curators, appraisors,
critics or editors. Our graduates keep in
touch via the Institute’s Alumni network which can provide a valuable source of up-to-date information on the art profession and employment opportunities.
Curriculum at a glance
SEMESTER 1
September - December, 2010 Contemporary Art from 1945 - Present Histories and Theories of Post-war and Contemporary Art Research Methodology: Research tools for contemporary art Professional Practice (including curating an exhibition and art writing) Study visits (e.g. DIA: Beacon; Marfa, TX)
SEMESTER 2
January - May, 2011 Global Art Production Research Methodology: Preparing to write a thesis Professional Practice Study visits (e.g. London, UK; Dubai Art
Fair, UAE)