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In this talk, held at CHART Art Fair 2024, we explored the evolving role of art collectors in philanthropy, and how technology and impact measurement are reshaping the field. Three experts shared how collectors today are contributing to social change, enhancing accessibility, and ensuring a sustainable impact in their art philanthropy endeavours.

Carola Wiese, Senior Advisor for �۶���Ƶ Family Art Advisory, says that “a very classic way is to start sharing art collections with an institution”, though today collectors are increasingly aiming higher and “thinking of a strategy to share their collection on a global scale”. She adds that a strong starting point is to think about “what is actually missing” and “understand the needs of artists”.

A prime is example is the work of Businessman and collector Christen Sveaas. “Initially Christen had an idea that he would donate the collection, but I think he thought it was more fun to realize his dream” says panelist William Flatmo, Director of the Christen Sveaas Foundation and Curator of Kistefos Sculpture Park in Norway. Now, the Foundation is the host of a global art loan program, and the sculpture park provides a rural area with access to contemporary art.

I think this is exactly where the field should be, creating more dialog between grassroots initiatives led by artists…

Sandra Terdjman, an art philanthropy advisory and Co-Founder of AFIELD and KADIST, also highlights the growing trend of artist-led initiatives. Often including educational programs or community-focused activities, switching the focus on new projects and relationships offers collectors an opportunity to support artists in making a tangible difference. She also notes the benefits of collaboration, with both organisations operating as collectives and forging global networks.

“We've tried to push the envelope of what it can mean in a sculptural setting.” William Flatmo reflects on a recent drive to host projects at Kistefos which integrate technology. From artworks developed with AI engines to real-time simulations, Flatmo highlights the importance for art philanthropy projects to be on the pulse of the latest innovations.

In her work with AFIELD, which connects art collectors and artists from across 65 countries, technology is vital for Sandra Terdjman. More recently, KADIST have been experimenting with AI to push digitized collections further. “AI is a powerful tool to make sense of and help to navigate through ideas and themes” she says.

With data-driven philanthropy becoming increasingly essential, Wiese stressed the importance of a sustainable and traceable impact. “It's very much the emotional impact, but also the number crunching,” she says.

From clicks to online collections to monitoring visitor figures, another key area to look at is accessibility. Is it free? Is it open often? These are simple ways that collectors can ensure their philanthropic contributions are effective and enduring.