This course examines the motivations of art collectors, both historical and contemporary, and their impact on the market and on art practice. Throughout the course students investigate changing taste and historical trends in collecting, the economics of collecting (supply and demand), connoisseurship, and aesthetics. The class examines the impact of the art dealer, auction house, and art advisor on collecting: how they create new markets and the means by which they cultivate the next generation of collectors. The course also addresses practical issues, such as sources and resources for collectors, how to define and build a collection, how to care for a collection, research resources for the collector, and issues of provenance.

The course is led by Elizabeth Marcus, associate director of Galerie St. Etienne in New York where she has worked for over 20 years. She has a Ph.D. in Art History from the City University of New York and has written and lectured widely on the history of 20th century fashion photography and the history of 20th century design.

Course dates
July 6 – 29, 2010
3:00pm – 5:00pm Monday & Wednesday
3:00pm – 6:00pm Tuesday & Thursday
Location: 570 Lexington Avenue

Course fee
$3,750

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Download Frequently Asked Questions about Summer Study.

For further information, please contact: publicprogramsNY@sothebysinstitute.com
Tel: +1 212.517.3929