MA Art Business graduate Katerina Lehmann undertook her work placement at Artiq, a leading art consultancy. The experience offered her hands-on insight into working with curators, artists, and clients—revealing how art can spark dialogue, transform spaces, and create meaningful social impact.
How would you describe your Sotheby’s Institute experience?
I really enjoyed my time at Sotheby’s Institute of Art. It provided the ideal bridge between my undergraduate studies in art history and the dynamic world of the art business. Through the MA Art Business program, I gained valuable skills in business management, research, public speaking, and leadership.
We also had firsthand exposure to the careers of art world professionals—such as auctioneers and art fair directors—which helped me better understand and narrow down potential career paths. Most importantly, the program expanded my global network. I built lasting friendships with peers from around the world who are now working across the international art scene.
How did your work placement complement your academic studies at Sotheby’s Institute of Art?
During my time at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, I developed a wide range of skills that proved invaluable during my work placement. My exposure to art world professionals at the Institute helped me feel confident and at ease when engaging with colleagues and clients at Artiq. I also drew on the presentation skills I had honed through various course assignments to effectively communicate my projects to the team. Overall, the placement was a fantastic opportunity to apply what I had learned in the classroom to a real-world setting and to gain meaningful industry experience.
Can you share a specific project or task during your placement that enhanced your understanding of the art or luxury industries?
During my placement at Artiq, I had the opportunity to visit the studios of contemporary artists who were either already represented by the company or were being considered for collaboration. Meeting these artists was an inspiring experience, as they represent the next generation of the art world and deserve meaningful support and recognition.
What new skills or insights did you acquire through your placement that you hadn't anticipated?
At Artiq, I gained hands-on experience in event planning by successfully organizing a breakfast panel talk and pop-up exhibition that focused on promoting social value in the workplace through art. This project involved extensive research, client prospecting, and direct communication with hundreds of invited guests. I also developed practical skills in database management and data organization using Microsoft Office. In addition, I gained a better understanding of art curation and expanded my knowledge of contemporary artists through in-depth research. It was a dynamic environment where I was constantly learning, and I am truly grateful for the experience.
In what ways did the work placement influence your perspective on potential career paths within the art world?
Prior to my placement at Artiq, I had little awareness of the art rental sector, particularly its role in enhancing workplaces and hospitality spaces. The experience introduced me to this fascinating niche and highlighted just how many unique avenues exist within the broader art industry. My time at Sotheby’s Institute of Art played a key role in preparing me to recognize and explore these opportunities, broadening my perspective on potential career paths within the art world.
Can you describe how the placement helped you build professional relationships or expand your network within the art sector?
The colleagues and fellow interns I worked with at Artiq were wonderful people, and I am fortunate to still be in touch with many of them today. As a recent graduate, breaking into the art industry can be challenging, but forming strong relationships with my colleagues significantly enriched my work placement experience. These connections not only made my time at Artiq more enjoyable but also kept me informed about the latest developments in the art world and potential job opportunities.
What advice would you give to future Sotheby’s Institute students, and how can they make the most of the work placement experience?
My work placement was one of the most valuable experiences during my time at Sotheby’s Institute, and I highly recommend it to anyone pursuing a career in the art world. I found that attending company events and making an effort to connect with colleagues greatly enhanced my experience.
The art community in London is small and closely knit, so building these relationships can be incredibly beneficial. I also encourage taking advantage of the various work experience opportunities offered by Sotheby’s Institute. These opportunities not only help you gain practical experience but also allow you to explore different areas of the industry and discover what truly interests you. Graduation arrives faster than you think, so make the most of every opportunity along the way!