COURSE DESCRIPTION

The course is an exploration of the global art market with a particular focus on the protagonists of the art system involved in producing, promoting, buying, selling and valuing art. It examines the historical evolution of the art market, as well as the contemporary marketplace and its economic and cultural implications. In its analysis of the dynamics of the art system, the course will address key issues such as art auctions, galleries, private collections, and the intersection of art and investment with an emphasis on contemporary artistic practices

SUMMARY OF COURSE CONTENT

The central aspect of the course focuses on in-class instruction introducing students to the key figures of the art system (Museum, Artist, Curator, Commercial Gallery, Auction House, Collector, Dealer, Art Fairs) and to the history of the art market, focusing particularly on the 20th and 21st centuries. Specific attention will be given to the more recent dynamics of the globalized Art Market, focusing on networks, concepts, and specialized terminology.

The course will offer an understanding of the composition of the global art market, discussing the impact of the idea of globalization itself, and its effects on contemporary art eco-systems. Other issues that will be examined are the demand and consumption of art, the structures through which art is produced and through which it circulates.

Complementary to this are a series of hands-on workshops, visits to galleries, museums, foundations, private and corporate collections, as well as

field.

a program of guest speakers,

allowing students to engage in direct dialogue with relevant professionals in the art market

The course combines in-class instruction, hands-on workshops, and visits to galleries, museums, foundations, as well as private and corporate collections. Rome and its arts institutions form a central case study for analyzing the dynamics of the art system, both theoretically and practically.