‘Trading Beauty: Art Market Histories from the Altar to the Gallery’, a Conversation with Valentina Castellani and Matt Carey-Williams

Join the Courtauld Business of Art Society for a conversation between art market expert Valentina Castellani and curator Matt Carey-Williams to discuss Castellani’s new book Trading Beauty: Art Market Histories from the Altar to the Gallery, published by Gagosian. An illustrated survey tracing the evolution of the Western art market from the medieval era to our own, Trading Beauty analyzes how the social, cultural, religious, and economic circumstances of different periods have defined models of art production, validation, and valuation. Castellani’s lively account is peppered with anecdotes and profiles highlighting key events and personalities, providing a captivating insight into the mechanisms that have shaped the art market as we now know it. After the talk, Castellani will sign copies of the book, which will be available for purchase. Valentina Castellani has held leading roles at Sotheby’s and Gagosian and has worked as an independent dealer. She is an adjunct professor in NYU Steinhardt’s MA program in Visual Arts Administration. Matt Carey-Williams opened his eponymous curatorial project in London in February 2024 after a nearly thirty-year career working at auction houses and blue-chip contemporary art galleries in London and New York. He is a recognized gallerist, curator, writer, and presenter. 🥂 Everyone is welcome, we hope to see you there!