Introducing the Art Market

This Introducing the Art Market short course offers you an in-depth exploration of the global art market. We will explore its values, structure and evolving dynamic, including new markets and the growing influence of contemporary art. The course also tackles important ethical issues and recent controversies, providing you with a comprehensive introduction to today's art market. 

You will gain insights into the key players in the art market and discover the commercial partnerships that shape the industry. You will also learn about the history of the art market, including the establishment of museums and galleries, and the role of art fairs and biennials. 

The course will also cover:

• the role and impact of key actors in the art market, such as auction houses and dealers
• the impact of celebrity artists and collectors
• collaborations between art, fashion and luxury brands
• digital art and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

The course will also delve into the ethics of collecting, the controversies surrounding issues of colonialism and acquisition by major institutions, and issues of appropriation and reparation that resonate in the wake of World War II. 

Throughout this Introducing the Art Market course, your learning will be supported by historic and contemporary case studies, in-class discussion activities, and visits to London galleries and museum exhibitions.

You will receive a Birkbeck certificate of participation upon completion of the course.