Conference: The Art of Asking

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Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, William Shakespeare, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart en Ludwig van Beethoven. Beeld: via Wikimedia Commons
Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, William Shakespeare, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven all made varying use of patrons.

With the upcoming budget cuts to culture, the topic of patronage is back in the spotlight. On 15 November, the Knowledge Center Patronage Studies is organising the international conference The Art of Asking, featuring presentations and discussions about the art of asking, both past and present, in the visual arts, music, literature, and science.

The rich history of ‘asking makers’

During the conference, we will delve into the rich history of patronage to discover what contemporary makers, institutions, and governments can learn from it. For centuries, writers, artists, composers, and scholars have sought the support of wealthy private benefactors. Can this knowledge inspire today’s makers and cultural institutions?

Ten international scholars will present their current research on historical and contemporary ‘asking makers’. They will highlight how the request for support has been made in the past and present: what tone, arguments, means, and strategies have been used? Following their presentations, four prominent figures from the Dutch cultural and policy sector will respond to their research.

Revival of cultural patronage

Patronage involves a maker forming a connection with a wealthy benefactor, the patron, or with a circle of ‘friends’ of their work. The maker can request donations for a project, or more structurally, for their creative practice.

In many European countries, the cultural sector is working towards a revival of patronage. Creators and cultural institutions invite art lovers to join donor circles and friend groups, or seek to engage with major donors. Governments also have an interest in fostering a new ‘asking culture’ and ‘giving culture’. They are implementing measures aimed at encouraging the cultural sector to seek support from private benefactors.

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Start date and time
End date and time
Location
University Library Science Park, Booth Room
Entrance fee
15.00 euros (for students 7.50 euros)
Registration

Please register here or register here if you are a student

More information
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