Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Dissertation - Restricted Access (SIA Only)
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Art Business
Abstract
This study examines the impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on public perceptions and analyzes them in the context of Suchman’s legitimacy theory and Bourdieu’s capital theory. A total of eleven participants were interviewed through either dyad or focus groups after attending one of the four corporate sponsored exhibitions in London and New York City. Transcribed recordings have been coded inductively to reveal five emerging themes. As supported by literature review, CSR fit with exhibition themes contributes to public perceptions, maintaining a neutral evaluative tone. This study aims to investigate whether this phenomenon may be attributed to Suchman’s legitimacy theory, which stipulates that the public has a predisposed view of corporate motivations and are not affected by the strategic corporate intent. Furthermore, corporations continue to build their cultural, social and symbolic capital to gain a competitive edge within a progressive society. This study hypothesizes that CSR acts as a bridge for corporations to protect their legitimacy and enhance their cultural capital.
Recommended Citation
Barcari, Anastasia, "CSR-Driven Sponsorship in the Arts: Public Perceptions Through the Lens of Suchman's Legitimacy and Bourdieu's Capital" (2026). MA in Art Business Dissertations. 40.
https://digitalcommons.sia.edu/ma_art_bus/40