This short course will provide an understanding of the day-to-day management of an artist studio and a commercial gallery. You will gain knowledge about the art market, business planning, marketing and copyright.
This Business of the Visual Arts part-time course is designed for emerging artists, potential or new gallery owners, and individuals interested in working in the visual arts. It provides insight into the management of a gallery and an artist’s practice.
Led by industry experts you will develop a wide set of skills complemented by the flexibility of evening study.
Delivered as 10 weekly evening classes, City's Business of the Visual Arts short course combines academic expertise with practical knowledge - ideal for people looking to gain in-depth knowledge of the business side to visual arts.
Led by an experienced gallery owner, with experience curating major projects at the British Museum and the Tate Gallery, students will learn how to successfully manage a gallery or exhibition.
You will gain insight into the visual arts business and practical tips and knowledge on a range of essential areas such as planning, copyright and marketing.
“ The tutor has vast experience in the art world - from large institutions to commercial galleries - which she generously passes on with candour and clarity. ”
Bushra Sarker
Alumni
“ Excellent overview of the subject - Renee [the tutor] had the right experience and contacts to teach the course well. The tutor was interested in student projects and brought in good external lecturers. Thank you. ”
Oliver Rowe
Alumni
The course explores art market mechanisms and business planning and includes a visit to an alternative gallery space as well as an artist’s studio.
No prior knowledge in visual art required.
Informal assessment will take place through group discussion, class room activities, and questions and answers sessions, as guided by your tutor
While we encourage you to read the books on the reading list for your course, we recommend that you speak to the tutor before investing in the purchase of any essential text.
There are a number of magazines available for subscription or online.
Arts Newspaper
Artist Newsletter
Museums Practice
Renée Pfister
Renée Pfister has built an esteemed and longstanding career as a consultant, curator, registrar and business development manager in the art world.
She was part of the curatorial team at the British Museum where she was involved in realising major projects such as the Great Court and the Weston Gallery of Roman-Britain.
At the Tate Gallery she worked as a Registrar from 1999 to 2005 and was responsible for managing acquisitions and ground-breaking international exhibitions from the Tate’s collection.
She also participated in a Registrars’ exchange programme at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York, wrote a chapter for the Routledge publication ‘Understanding International Art Markets & Management’ and worked for the late Sir Anthony Caro as an advisor.
Since 2010 she has run her own art and gallery consultancy. She offers support to gallery owners new in the business and career mentoring services to emerging and mid-career artists.
In addition, she teaches at City, University of London, Lancaster University, South London Arts Forum and Sotheby’s Institute of Art.
