What motivated you to pursue an MA at Sotheby’s Institute, and how did your experience shape your perspective on the art world?

While completing my BA in Art History in Vienna, I felt quite detached from the art world. Although I was gaining valuable theoretical knowledge, I didn’t feel connected to the professional sphere and was missing hands-on experience.

I saw Sotheby’s Institute as an opportunity to immerse myself in one of the world’s most dynamic hubs for contemporary art, to be at the pulse of international developments, to build a meaningful network, and to gain an understanding of the different art sectors and how they operate.

Completing the MA in Fine and Decorative Art and Design (now MA in Historic Art and Design) truly broadened my horizons in the sense that I was exposed to a wide range of career paths, learned directly from leading cultural professionals, and developed practical skills through real-world projects.

Can you share how the MA program shaped your understanding of the art market?

During the orientation course ‘Navigating the Art World’, I gained an in-depth understanding of how the art market operates: from distinguishing the primary and secondary markets to learning how value is created, how estimates are determined, and how tastemakers shape market trends. I came to see how the market functions as the driving force behind the entire art ecosystem.

I particularly remember the auction project, which involved creating a fictional sales exhibition of an eclectic private collection. We developed estimates, did cost calculations, designed a marketing strategy and corresponding events, and curated the exhibition. This experience was invaluable in helping me understand the intricate dynamics of the art market and how to develop and manage commercial projects.

What were the most valuable skills you gained during the program, and how do you apply them in your career?

One of the most valuable aspects of the program was learning how to build meaningful networks and recognize opportunities that could lead to professional growth. Through numerous visits to museums and galleries, in-depth discussions about art, and a strong focus on authentication and close observation, I became much more confident in speaking and writing about art and gradually built an inner map of the art world.

In my current role as Assistant Curator at the Albertina, I greatly benefit from this experience. I feel confident discussing current trends, key players, and market developments in the contemporary art world, as well as speaking about art itself—from aesthetic considerations to questions of value and pricing.

This confidence also translates into my writing, whether I am contributing texts for exhibition catalogs or developing curatorial narratives.

Can you describe your current role and how the knowledge or experiences from the MA program support your responsibilities?

I currently work as Assistant Curator at the Albertina in the Department of Contemporary Art. Attending lectures by a diverse range of art professionals, including museum directors, curators, gallerists, art journalists, and artists, provided me with a comprehensive, 360-degree perspective of the art world.

This experience has been hugely beneficial for researching artworks for exhibitions, understanding museum structures and collection management, and writing effectively about art.

Using works of art as case studies is a hallmark of the program. How do you feel this method helps students develop critical thinking or connoisseurship skills?

Authentication was one of my favorite exercises during the MA program. Approaching artworks “blind,” without prior information, was incredibly enriching because it trained me to pay close attention to details and to look at art in a completely different way. It felt a bit like working as a detective—piecing together visual clues and learning to recognize the distinctive qualities of different artists: how they render certain body parts, the color palettes they use, their approach to composition, or the texture of their brushwork.

I believe this method is highly effective because it encourages students to trust their own perception before turning to external sources. This ability to look closely, think critically, and form independent judgments is invaluable in any profession that involves direct engagement with artworks.

What has been the lasting value of the program for you—whether in terms of professional opportunities, intellectual growth, or personal perspective?

The most enriching aspect of the program for me was the inspiring exchange and genuine support from professors, art professionals, and fellow students, as well as the lasting connections that grew out of that experience.

I really enjoyed the sense of community and the opportunity to meet fascinating people from all over the world, each bringing different perspectives and backgrounds. A particular highlight was being selected to deliver the graduation speech, which felt like a true recognition of my work and dedication.

What advice or tips would you give to Sotheby’s Institute applicants?

Completing the MA program can be a real springboard for entering the art world. My advice to future students would be to make the most of the year: take an active part in discussions, stay curious, and see as much art as possible. Invest time and energy in the projects, take advantage of internship opportunities, explore different professional paths within the art world, and talk to people about their career journey.

I would also recommend making full use of the career counseling services: they’re a great way to reflect on your strengths, define your goals, and identify the kind of role you see yourself in after graduation.

Image © Jens Wirtzfeld