For more than 50 years, Sotheby’s Institute of Art has been the leader in training art market professionals and cultural stewards for careers in the future art world. As we continue to monitor and respond to the public health situation regarding COVID-19, our exceptional faculty are evolving our curricula and teaching methodology to meet the new demands of art business and how art impacts cultural dialogue.
Wherever you are in the world, we know that these are unprecedented times. We also know that many of you are eager to know what our arrangements will be for the next academic year. We are committed to ensuring the health and well-being of our community, and to providing you with options and flexibility as you take the next steps toward your future.
We are therefore pleased to inform you that Sotheby’s Institute of Art will be delivering Master’s degree programs with start dates both in September 2020 and in January 2021.
In September 2020, all New York MA programs (MA in Art Business, MA in Contemporary Art, MA in Fine and Decorative Art and Design), and two London MA programs (the MA in Art Business and the MA in Contemporary Art) will begin via remote learning. In-person instruction is planned to resume on both campuses by January 2021. The academic year will end at the customary point in both campuses—December 2021 in New York and September 2021 in London.
In January 2021, both New York and London campuses are offering a January start for all MA programs. The academic year will end in April 2022 in New York and in December 2021 in London.
Sotheby’s Institute of Art remains committed to academic excellence, professional practice, and object-based learning via all media. We have extensive experience delivering teaching remotely, and for those of you who remain committed to beginning the program this Fall, we want you to know that we will focus on developing the best possible virtual experience.
Regardless of how or when you embark on your Master’s degree, the Sotheby’s Institute experience goes beyond teaching and learning. Other critical elements include: extracurricular activities, a social and professional network, career-focused workshops and professional development, and privileged access to the interiors of the art world. These aspects of a Sotheby’s Institute graduate education will always continue, for every class and in every format.
The Institute is also deeply committed to diversity and racial equity, welcoming students, faculty, and staff of all backgrounds, nationalities, and abilities to further enrich our multifaceted learning environment and to positively impact all sectors of art, culture, and society at large.
We understand that each of you is weighing a variety of factors in these changing times. We remain committed to our students and to our mission, and we look forward to welcoming you in the coming months and developing positive, constructive new ways to contribute to art historical scholarship, the global art market, and cultural initiatives in our dynamic industry.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Woolfson, Director, Sotheby’s Institute of Art-London
Christine Kuan, CEO/Director, Sotheby’s Institute of Art-New York