Sotheby's Institute of Art is a private, for-profit college with campuses in London and New York City. It evolved from a connoisseurship program started by Sotheby's auction house in 1969. While now a subsidiary of Sotheby's fine art dealers under the Cambridge Information Group (CIG), the Institute maintains strong links with the auction house, offering students unique access to the art world.
Key aspects of Sotheby's Institute of Art:
Focus: The Institute provides education on the business of art, exploring both the scholarly and practical sides of the art world.
Locations: Campuses are situated in significant art capitals: London (Bloomsbury) and New York City (Midtown Manhattan). They also offer online courses.
Degrees: Offers Master's degree programs in areas like Art Business, Contemporary Art, Fine and Decorative Art, East Asian Art, and Contemporary Design. In London, these degrees are awarded by the University of Manchester. In New York, degrees are granted through the Regents of the State of New York and accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Short Courses: Provides various short-term programs (weeks or months) and online certificates on topics like curation, art evaluation, and provenance research.
Industry Connections: Benefits from its history and ongoing relationship with Sotheby's auction house, providing students with access to internships, auctions, exhibitions, and guest speakers who are art world professionals.
Global Network: The Institute has built an extensive global network of alumni working across various sectors of the art world.
Libraries: The London and New York campuses have specialized libraries with a significant collection of art-related academic resources.
Teaching Methodology: Combines academic rigor with practical, real-world experience, emphasizing a critical understanding of art and its markets.
Book with House of Student and become a part of the largest global community of students accomodation with us. Know why students love us!
Safe Spaces, No Exceptions
Student-only, fully vetted homes
365 days, 24/7 genuine support
Your concierge aka ivey.ai and our global team of real humans are there to help you.
Lowest Prices, Best Deals Guaranteed
No hidden costs or platform fee
Thrive Inside Out
Mental health & wellbeing support always available throughout your tenure.
Grow Anywhere
More than 1 million student rooms across 1000+ student cities
Reserve now.
Pay Later, Free Cancellations
Change of mind? No questions asked cancellations within the specified period
Sotheby's Institute of Art is a private, for-profit college with campuses in London and New York City. It evolved from a connoisseurship program started by Sotheby's auction house in 1969. While now a subsidiary of Sotheby's fine art dealers under the Cambridge Information Group (CIG), the Institute maintains strong links with the auction house, offering students unique access to the art world.
Key aspects of Sotheby's Institute of Art:
Focus: The Institute provides education on the business of art, exploring both the scholarly and practical sides of the art world.
Locations: Campuses are situated in significant art capitals: London (Bloomsbury) and New York City (Midtown Manhattan). They also offer online courses.
Degrees: Offers Master's degree programs in areas like Art Business, Contemporary Art, Fine and Decorative Art, East Asian Art, and Contemporary Design. In London, these degrees are awarded by the University of Manchester. In New York, degrees are granted through the Regents of the State of New York and accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Short Courses: Provides various short-term programs (weeks or months) and online certificates on topics like curation, art evaluation, and provenance research.
Industry Connections: Benefits from its history and ongoing relationship with Sotheby's auction house, providing students with access to internships, auctions, exhibitions, and guest speakers who are art world professionals.
Global Network: The Institute has built an extensive global network of alumni working across various sectors of the art world.
Libraries: The London and New York campuses have specialized libraries with a significant collection of art-related academic resources.
Teaching Methodology: Combines academic rigor with practical, real-world experience, emphasizing a critical understanding of art and its markets.
Student life at Sotheby's Institute of Art offers a unique and focused experience for individuals passionate about art and its commercial aspects, particularly within the vibrant art scenes of London and New York.
Key aspects of student life include:
Immersive Art Environment: Studying in London or New York provides unparalleled access to world-renowned museums, galleries, auction houses, and the broader art market. The Institute's locations are strategically placed within these cultural hubs.
Industry Engagement: A significant part of the student experience involves direct interaction with the art world through field study trips, behind-the-scenes visits, and talks by industry experts. The connection with Sotheby's auction house offers unique opportunities.
Networking: The Institute fosters a strong networking environment, connecting students with faculty who are often leading art professionals and with a diverse cohort of peers from around the globe. The extensive alumni network provides further professional connections.
Academic Focus: The Master's programs are academically rigorous, providing a deep understanding of art history, theory, and the intricacies of the art market.
Practical Skills Development: Beyond art historical knowledge, the curriculum emphasizes developing practical skills relevant to the art business, such as valuation, marketing, law, and finance.
Student-Led Initiatives: Students often take initiative in creating their own platforms for engagement with the art world, such as the student-run MADE IN BED Magazine at the London campus.
Accommodation: The Institute itself does not directly offer housing, but provides resources and guidance to students on finding accommodation in London or New York. Many students in London opt for private apartments in central neighborhoods like Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Soho, and Covent Garden due to their proximity to the Institute and other cultural institutions. In New York, various student housing options are available through services like Educational Housing Services (EHS).
Social Activities: While the primary focus is academic and professional development, students benefit from the social opportunities available in major cities like London and New York, as well as through Institute-organized events and student-led initiatives.
Career Services: The Institute provides career services to Master's students, offering customized support in internship and job searches, including resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and alumni network connections.
1. Fitzrovia
2. Marylebone
3. Soho
4. Covent Garden
While studying at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, take the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of London:
British Museu
Description: One of the world's most comprehensive museums, offering a vast collection of art and artifacts from various cultures and eras.
Activities: Explore the museum's extensive collections and participate in educational programs.
Regent’s Park
Description: A large public park offering green spaces, lakes, and recreational facilities.
Activities: Picnicking, boating, and attending open-air events.
Oxford Street
Description: One of London's most famous shopping streets, offering a wide range of retail stores
Activities: Shopping and exploring the vibrant atmosphere.
Covent Garden Market
Description: A historic market area known for its shops, street performers, and restaurants.
Activities: Shopping, dining, and enjoying live entertainment.
National Gallery
Description: An art museum housing a rich collection of European paintings.
Activities: Viewing masterpieces from renowned artists and attending exhibitions.
Soho
Description: A vibrant district known for its nightlife, dining, and cultural scene.
Activities: Exploring unique shops, enjoying diverse cuisines, and experiencing the lively atmosphere.
Trafalgar Square
Description: A public square featuring Nelson's Column and surrounded by cultural institutions.
Activities: Attending events, visiting nearby museums, and enjoying the open space.
Sotheby’s Institute of Art is centrally located in Bloomsbury, London, offering excellent connectivity to various parts of the city. The public transport system in London is well-developed, comprising buses, trams, and trains, all integrated under the Bee Network. This system is designed to provide affordable and efficient travel options for students.