Noah G. Tyler

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Contemporary Art

First Advisor

Judith Prowda

Second Advisor

Betsy Thomas

Abstract

This scholarly exploration delves into the ethical dimensions inherent in providing art advisory services within the dynamic milieu of the New York art market. The spotlight is aptly directed towards influential entities such as Gagosian Art Advisory, Lisa Schiff, Pace Gallery, Acquavella Galleries, Allan Schwartzman, and The Brant Foundation. This diverse array of players vividly illustrates the complexity of the ethical discourse prevailing in this intricate landscape. The convergence of commerce and creativity leads to profound inquiries regarding conflicts of interest, transparency, and the responsible custodianship of cultural heritage, thereby unveiling the intricate relationships underpinning the art world. The significance of ethical quandaries within art advisory services echoes across a spectrum of stakeholders, affecting the delicate equilibrium between financial pursuits and the safeguarding of artistic integrity. This paper elucidates the fundamental ethical issues, encompassing conflicts of interest, transparency, and client relationships, examining their extensive ramifications on the financial dynamics of the art market, an artist's career trajectory, and the preservation of cultural heritage. As the global epicenter of the art scene, the New York art landscape becomes pivotal in comprehending the broader implications of these ethical dilemmas. From collectors to institutions and advisors, stakeholders must forge guidelines collaboratively to foster a fair and honest art market. Collectors, as pivotal figures, shoulder a significant responsibility in shaping ethical standards, thereby influencing advisors' decisions and, consequently, molding the moral landscape of the market. The research inquiries and objectives furnish a roadmap for scrutinizing the historical evolution of art advisory services, their contributions to the cultural and economic tapestry of New York City, and their impact on collectors and the state-of-the-art market. The overview navigates through the metamorphosis of art advisory services, ethical concerns in the art market, power dynamics within the New York art advisory sphere, antecedent studies on moral quandaries, and identifies holes in the existing literature. The methodology entails meticulous research reviews, extant literature analysis, and identifying key players and trends in the New York art advisory domain. Subsequent sections dissect ethical dilemmas through insightful case studies, delve into influence and power dynamics, and meticulously look into the legal intricacies surrounding Lisa Schiff. Mitigating ethical dilemmas necessitates the proposition of best practices in regulatory frameworks, underscoring the pivotal role of education for art advisors.

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