Social History of Art

The course analyses the contemporary art ecosystem and specifically the collecting and the market as components of the Social History of Art. Lectures focus on the events and relationships among artists, collectors, auction houses, institutions and gallerists active in the last decades. The course's program will unfold in search of the origins of the dynamics that characterize today's global art industry.

Knowledge and understanding:
Technical knowledge of the contemporary art system, its functioning and its main players. Knowledge of the social history of art's contribution to the history of contemporary culture.

Applying knowledge and understanding:
Development of an analytical approach to the functioning of the contemporary art system. Development of a critical understanding of the artistic context, based on interests and the impacts of the players on the art system. Critical analysis of how production, exchange, and transmission of artworks and collections through the generations work.