Example artist dissertation topic 2:

The legacy of art philanthropy: A case study of John Davan Sainsbury, Baron of Preston Candover.

Art philanthropy may be motivated by many factors, including a true philanthropic desire, tax advantages, or self-glorification. This thesis examines the art philanthropy of Lord Sainsbury, taking into consideration his joint philanthropic efforts with his brothers, Simon and Timothy, and with his wife, Anya Linden. The paper examines the donations for the Sainsbury Wing of the National Gallery, the work of the Linbury Trust, and his donation to the British Museum. Other areas addressed include the management of Lord Sainsbury’s estate at Preston Candover, with respect to the observance of conservation and restoration of art therein. This thesis would particularly suit a candidate with an interest in the commercial and tax-related aspects of art.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Herrmann, F. (2009). ‘Collecting then and now: The English and some other collectors’, The Journal of the History of Collections, Vol. 21(2), pp. 263-269.
• Rovers, E. (2009). ‘The art collector: Between philanthropy and self-glorification’, The Journal of the History of Collections, Vol. 21(2), pp. 157-161.
• Schervish, P. G. (2000). ‘The spiritual horizons of philanthropy: New directions for money and motives’, Philanthropic Fundraising, Vol. 29, pp. 17-32.