MA Fine and Decorative Art and Design

New York City is one of the largest art capitals in the world, making possible privileged access to pre-sale auction viewings, seminars with world-class experts and handling sessions in which important objects are examined in detail. Field Study takes students to the homes of legendary private collectors, artists’ studios, international art fairs, biennials and triennials, and the world’s finest museums.

Sotheby’s Institute of Art-New York holds degree-granting authority from the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York and is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

The Fine and Decorative Art and Design masters is based on a simple belief: the fundamental currency of the art world is objects. The program prepares students for careers in the art world, focusing not only on the history of art in America but also on the connoisseurship skills necessary to study and evaluate objects and to engage directly with the marketplace; it examines the diverse cultural histories of objects, makers, and markets of each period. An internship at the prestigious Winter Antiques Show and weekly travel and study trips form an essential part of the experience, providing a deeper understanding of regional differences and expanding students’ professional networks.

Students in the program come from diverse backgrounds but share a common goal: a career that allows them to connect audiences and objects. Whether in sales, art history, cultural institution management, or the museum world, graduates have the ability to think critically and actively seek ways to foster connections to art through interpretation. Alumni of the program now hold significant positions in galleries, auction houses, consultancies, and museums.