107-031 Art and the Market: Then and Now

Usually 12.5 points of first-year art history.

This subject deals with the emerging area of studies of the marketing of art. It commences in 15th century Italy with an examination of the organisation of artists' workshops and concludes by analysing the relationships between contemporary artists and dealers and the market for Aboriginal art. Attention is directed to such issues as forgery, the early professional art dealer and the changing relationship of artist and patron to artist and client. Students will also examine the marketing of art in a broader sense. Auction houses and the internationalisation of the art market are thus also considered for the light they throw on our understanding of issues of commodification and perceptions of artistic worth. Other topics include artistic reputation, the artist as entrepreneur, art market and museum policies and the psychology of collecting.

• be able to research through the competent use of the library and other information sources, and be able to define areas of inquiry and methods of research in the preparation of essays;

• be able to conceptualise theoretical problems, form judgements and arguments and communicate critically, creatively and theoretically through essay writing, tutorial discussion and presentations;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion;

• be able to manage and organise workloads for recommended reading, the completion of essays and assignments and examination revision;

• be able to participate in team work through involvement in syndicate groups and group discussions.

A 300 word exercise 20% (due during the semester), a 2000 word research essay 40% (due during the semester), and a 1700 word take home examination 40% (due in the examination period). A minimum 75% attendance at tutorials is also expected as a hurdle requirement in order to pass the subject.

A subject reader will be available.