Who Pays for All of This?: Art Collecting and Patronage for the Past, Present, and Future

Art collectors and patrons play a major but often unseen role in art history and cultural heritage. From monarchs and the Church, anthropologists, and the mega donors of todays' museums, art has long been defined and supported through expansive webs of patronage and private funding. This course explores the roots of art collecting and patronage using the Art Institute of Chicago's collections and vibrant art community. It investigates larger issues within collecting, including its ethical implications, repatriation, finance, psychology, and the personal perspectives of artists, curators, dealers, and collectors. Through lectures, discussions, and visits to museums, galleries, collections, and studios, this course will not only introduce art history and its patronage relationship but also consider its present and future role and how we can all be patrons of the arts. 

Note: This course fulfills the Art History requirement for the Adult Continuing Education noncredit Drawing and Painting certificates.

No class on March 21st or April 4th

Registration closes at Noon on Monday, February 2nd, 2026