What does it take to build a thriving future for contemporary art?

As part of the VAO exhibition at The Minster Building, join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion exploring the power of patronage and the vital role it plays in shaping the future of contemporary art.

Bringing together perspectives from across the art world, the conversation will explore how collectors, patrons, organisations and businesses can support artists, create opportunities and contribute to a dynamic and sustainable contemporary art ecosystem.

What We’ll Explore

• The power of patronage — How meaningful support can shape artists’ careers and influence the cultural conversations of tomorrow.
• From attention to action — How engagement with art can translate into tangible support, from collecting to accessible forms of micro-patronage.
• Building meaningful connections — The role of art advisors, galleries, businesses and organisations in connecting artists with new audiences and opportunities.
• Shaping the future together — How collectors, patrons and art-world professionals can work collectively to create a more accessible, inclusive and thriving contemporary art landscape.

Speakers

Evelīna Gorbačova — Head of Digital Development FOLLOW.ART
Evelīna brings a perspective focused on turning attention into tangible support for artists. Drawing on FOLLOW.ART’s model of micro-patronage, she will explore how small, immediate contributions made at the moment someone encounters an artwork can become the first step towards a longer-term relationship between an artist and their audience.

Daniela Bianco — Art Advisor & Founder, The Blonde Art Dealer
Daniela Bianco is an art advisor with over 17 years of experience in fine art sales and collection management, specialising in pop art prints and contemporary artworks. She has worked with Artsy Private Sales and galleries across Milan, London and Brussels, and curates online exhibitions and content through her blog, The Blonde Art Dealer, and podcast, Secrets of the Art Business. Daniela’s mission is to connect art lovers with artists while making the art world more transparent, accessible and inclusive.

Tabish Khan — Art Critic, Writer & Curator
Tabish Khan is a leading art critic and curator, bringing extensive experience and insight into the contemporary art landscape. He will contribute to the conversation around the forces shaping the art world today and the role that different audiences and institutions can play in supporting its future.

Date, Time & Location

Friday 9th October | 11:00am–12:00pm
The Minster Building, 21 Mincing Lane, London, EC3R 7AG