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.

Download

Share

COinS