This course provides an in-depth introduction to the complex field of art law and its implications for the larger art market. Students will study various issues such as artist’s rights and copyright, Intellectual Property and the legal ramifications of appropriation, repatriation and restitution of cultural property, and legal issues related to market transactions. Through case studies, discussions, and industry perspectives, students will understand how these issues intersect with the responsibilities of key art market players.
According to course leader Judith Prowda, there is not an aspect of the art market that is not somehow affected by the law. Taking the lifecycle of a work of art, from the moment art is created there are immediate questions of copyrights and ownerships of intellectual property. Upon its entry to the primary market a work is sold for the first time, through a gallery or other point of sale. Later, the art may be resold through a secondary market – a dealer or at auction. “At each stage along the way, there are legal issues,” Prowda says. An art business professional must understand the legal aspects of copies, copyright infringement, and forgeries; art entering museums and tax implications, or the legal frameworks in creating foundations and new business ventures.
To define different international law systems and how they intersect with the global art market.
To understand key case studies regarding appropriation, copyright, and restitution.
To articulate the legal rights and obligations of each key player in the art market.
Faculty, M.A. Art Business, New York
Judith Prowda is an attorney, mediator and arbitrator focused on art law, copyright, entertainment and commercial law. She is Past Chair of the Entertainment, Arts and Sports Law Section of the New York State Bar Association, and is Chair of the Section’s Committee on Fine Arts and Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Committee on Alternative Dispute Resolution.
Read MoreCourse participants take away in-depth and valuable insight into the current and future art world. Those who successfully complete their course will receive a certificate of completion from Sotheby’s Institute of Art.
English Language Requirement
Course participants should be proficient in written and spoken English and be able to participate in group discussions and presentations in English.
Age Requirement
Courses are open to participants 18 years of age or older.
All fees are listed in pounds sterling. However, at the time of registration, registrants will have the option to pay in the currency associated with their billing address according to the current conversion rate. For more details regarding payment, please see our Terms and Conditions.