Wondering which art history program to choose between university and IESA arts&culture?
I am torn between a Bachelor’s in Art History at university and a Bachelor in Art History at IESA arts&culture …
The IESA arts&culture curriculum not only provides the essential foundations in art history, but also the basics of appraisal, law and knowledge of the players in the art market and its activities.
In addition, at IESA, internships carried out throughout the year and projects provide contact with professionals and the working world from the very first year.
You graduate from the Bachelor in Art Expertise and Commerce with a validated Bac+3 Bachelor’s level in art history but also with around fifteen internships over 3 years, projects and actual participation in major market events (FIAC, Salon des Antiquaires, Paris Photo, Salon du Dessin, European Heritage Days…), and most often an international experience (university exchange, travel, internship, project).
What career opportunities does a Bachelor or a Bachelor’s degree in art history offer?
While art history at university leads toward careers in research, conservation or publishing, the mixed curriculum of IESA arts&culture in art history and art commerce and appraisal leads to subsequent work in galleries, museums, auction houses, art foundations and fairs.
For sales-related careers: auctioneer, gallery owner, art broker, artist’s agent, antiques dealer; but also for outreach-related careers: exhibition curator, insurance appraiser, sponsorship officer…
Is it necessary to study art history to become an auctioneer, antiques dealer, gallery owner, etc.?
Yes, knowledge of art history is essential, but the standard university curriculum is not enough to work in the art market. You need a grounding in law (intellectual property, transport of works, insurance), appraisal, and management.
Knowing how to recognize that a painting is French from the 18th century is one thing. Knowing whether it is genuine or fake, how and for how much to buy and sell it, transport it, or exhibit it is another.
Which art history program should you take at IESA arts&culture?
If you want to study art history, you will take the 3-year Art Expertise and Business Bachelor program. At the end of your studies, you can continue with our Master Marketing and Distribution of Works of Art and specialize in ancient and modern art or in contemporary art.