Art Markets and Methods

This subject deals with the study of art markets through the examination of the materials, methods and production processes of art from the Renaissance to Contemporary art. The subject will consider the interrelationships between the creation of a work of art (methods), its economic value and its art market networks in which it passes. It will consider the primary and secondary markets for art, its cultural value (the value ascribed to the artist and work of art by collectors, curators and art museums over time) and its symbolic value (its overall importance, meaning and significance as a work of art). Topics in the subject are varied but will focus on certain key areas: development and reception of a work of art: cultural and artistic practices and making a work of art, the examinations of specific materials and techniques (the role of materials, mediums and the framing of a work of art), the determination of authenticity and value, and the mapping of the art markets within a global and culturally diverse framework.