More than ever before, global insecurities challenge the notions of traditional economic patterns and systems. Over the course of eight weeks, Art Business Essentials introduces course participants to the multifaceted global art industry by identifying the different key players in both the commercial and non-profit sectors of the field, and offers a thorough understanding of the methods that drive the buying, selling, viewing, and collecting of art. Key topics will include the roles of artists, collectors, private museums, and mega-galleries, as well as the tension between the non-profit and commercial sectors, the rise of digital innovators and NFTs, and the burgeoning impacts of the increased financialization of the art world.
This comprehensive course puts participants on the right track to operate with increased expertise within the art world. It is ideal for those looking to understand the structure of the art market as well as those looking to make a career change by exploring the key roles and institutions that comprise the business of art. At the end of the eight weeks, students will complete a final project, applying the knowledge they have gained.
This Online Premier Course features weekly recorded lectures and faculty-guided discussion boards to maximize flexibility and deliver an engaging and interactive digital experience.
Adjunct Faculty, Online Courses
Stephanie Dieckvoss has over 15 years experience of working in commercial art galleries and art fairs, and a wealth of experience in cultural management in the public and private sector.
Read MoreWeek 1: Gain an understanding of the art world ecosystem, its foundations, and its various models and networks.
Week 2: Examine practical applications of law, governance, and financialization in the art market, including art investment funds and global heritage law.
Week 3: Discover the gallery landscape and learn about different gallery models and sales channels while uncovering new modes of exhibition-making.
Week 4: Delve into the exciting world of auctions and art fairs, examining the respective histories of these art world pillars and the roles they play in today’s art trade.
Week 5: Explore the functions and roles of key players in the non-profit space, including museums, institutions, and other cultural organizations.
Week 6: Understand the roles and motivations of private, corporate, and institutional collectors, collections, and foundations.
Week 7: Discuss the role of artists in the twenty-first century and topics such as artists’ rights and protections and the increased importance placed on branding the artist.
Week 8: Recognize cutting-edge digital innovations transforming the art world today, including the use of blockchain, NFTs, and AI.
This flexible online course is delivered in weekly modules consisting of recorded lectures, instructor-guided discussion boards, and supplementary resources. The course will include a final project with personalized feedback from the course instructor. All participants will have read-only access to the course materials for an additional 90 days after the course end date.
Review the online course Terms and Conditions.
For successfully completing this course, you receive a verified Certificate of Completion from Sotheby’s Institute of Art as well as 4.1 IACET Continuing Education Units. *
Our digital certificates allow you to share new skills with various social media platforms, including LinkedIn. Successful completion is defined by each instructor in the course syllabus and consists, at the least, of regular, thoughtful participation in online activities and timely submission of assigned papers or projects.
*As an IACET Accredited Provider, Sotheby’s Institute of Art offers IACET CEUs for its learning events that comply with the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Standard.