Venus, Mars & the Garden of Meaning: Botticelli’s Hidden Messages

Welcome to the Art Business Podcast with David Bellingham. In this episode David speaks with Charlotte Stewart, Managing Director of MyArtBroker, about her non‑traditional route into the art world, her decade at Christie’s, and the digital pivot that led her to help build a leading online prints and editions brokerage. Charlotte describes how editorial storytelling and business management skills learned in traditional auction-house roles have shaped her approach to marketing, valuation and running a profitable tech-enabled business. She explains why MyArtBroker focuses on prints and editions, how the platform combines a machine‑learning valuation engine (drawing on data from some 400 auction houses) with specialist human expertise, and why authenticity, condition reports and conservator checks remain central to every sale. The conversation covers MyArtBroker’s business model — private sales, referrals and trade business — and practical differences from galleries and auction houses, including zero percent seller fees and taking a buyer-side margin. Charlotte reflects on how the pandemic accelerated online buying, why Banksy prints were particularly well-suited to digital brokerage, and how the company balanced rapid growth with maintaining trust and authority in the market. Key themes include the interplay of technology and human judgement (Charlotte’s “sandwich” analogy for AI as an assistant, not a replacement), the importance of focused specialism rather than chasing shiny new products, and the role of curated content and data in building credibility. She also discusses collector demographics, the looming wealth transfer from boomers to younger buyers, and predictions for how brokerage, authentication and digital tools may evolve over the next five years. Listeners can expect practical insights for anyone interested in art careers, digital transformation in the art market, and the operational realities of running an online brokerage — from valuation methodology and trust-building to when to use technology and when human specialists must lead the process. Guest: Charlotte Stewart, Managing Director at My Art Broker. Host: David Bellingham, Programme Director, MA Art Business, Sotheby's Institute of Art London. Topics: career paths in the art market; prints and editions brokerage; valuation algorithms and machine learning; pandemic acceleration of online sales; authentication and condition reporting; AI as an assistant; collector behaviour and the future of art brokerage.   Links:  https://www.myartbroker.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-stewart-775a35a1/?originalSubdomain=uk   music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)  

In this episode David interviews Zein Khalifa, alumna of the MA in Photography at Sotheby's Institute of Art London and co-founder of Tintera, the only private gallery in Egypt dedicated to fine art photography, about her journey from photographer to gallerist and the gallery’s mission to showcase and preserve contemporary Egyptian photography. They discuss analog vs digital practices, curatorial choices, working with Egyptian and regional artists, building audiences locally and internationally, and Tintera’s participation in the forthcoming 1:54 (London) and Paris Photo art fairs.   Links: https://www.tintera.art/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/zein-khalifa-90767425/?originalSubdomain=uk   music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)

David interviews painter Georgia Dymock about her artistic journey since leaving Slade: solo shows, selection for New Contemporaries, representation by Gillian Jason, and winning the ACS x Gurr John Studio Prize. They discuss how the prize and gallery exposure are shaping her career. Georgia explains her studio routine in Camden and her process of moving from digital sculpture (ZBrush, rendering) to oil on herringbone linen, exploring themes of connectedness, ambiguity, hybrid mythic figures and the balance between surface and psychological distance. She also reflects on influences, practical art‑business skills, and plans to expand her work.   Links: https://www.georgiadymock.com/ https://www.gillianjason.com/artists/97-georgia-dymock/ https://www.gurrjohns.com/ https://artistscollectingsociety.org/news/2025-acs-studio-prize-x-gurr-johns-exhibition/     music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)

This lecture explores Sandro Botticelli's Venus and Mars, examining its Neoplatonist layers of meaning, ambiguous identities, and possible identifications with historical figures like Giuliano de' Medici and Simonetta Vespucci. The talk discusses iconography, seasonal symbolism, botanical clues (including the thorn apple/Datura), Christian readings (Adam and Eve, Mary Magdalene), and the painting's likely function in a marriage chamber, offering a multi-semantic interpretation that blends myth, history, and moral commentary. music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)

In this second episode of a two-part lecture series, Dr David Bellingham continues his exploration of the art market, tracing its development from the Renaissance to the contemporary global scene. Drawing on historical, economic, and ethical perspectives, the lecture examines how art evolved from elite patronage into a commodified asset shaped by imperialism, celebrity culture, and financial speculation. Topics include: The rise of branded artists and the value of materials The emergence of auction houses and commercial galleries Colonial plunder and the ethics of restitution The impact of globalisation and digital transparency The role of collectors, dealers, and art fairs in shaping today’s market This episode completes the journey begun in Part I, offering a critical overview of the forces that continue to shape the art world today. Keywords: Art Market History, Renaissance Patronage, Auction Houses, Colonial Acquisitions, Contemporary Art Fairs, MAAB, David Bellingham   music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)  

In this first episode of a two-part lecture series, Dr David Bellingham traces the evolution of the art market from its prehistoric origins to the medieval period. Drawing on archaeological, literary, and technical evidence, the lecture explores how art objects transitioned from ritual and utilitarian functions into exchangeable commodities. Topics include: Long-distance trade and stylistic diffusion in ancient cultures The emergence of artist signatures and competition in Classical Greece Roman collecting, auctions, and the replication of originals The role of advisors and secondary markets The shift to church patronage and the proto-Renaissance This episode sets the stage for Part II, which will examine the rise of the modern art market from the Renaissance to the present day. Keywords: Art Market History, Ancient Trade, Artist Branding, Roman Collecting, Medieval Patronage, MAAB, David Bellingham music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)  

Welcome to the Art Business Podcast! In this episode, David Bellingham, Programme Director of the MA Art Business, Sotheby's Institute of Art London, investigates the dynamic landscape of Ukrainian art during wartime. Alongside curator and art historian Bohdan Mysiuha and interpreter Olena Grubb, the discussion explores the shifting priorities among Ukrainian art collectors, emphasizing the cultural significance and quality of national art. The conversation highlights the resurgence of early Ukrainian modernism, revealing how historical events influence contemporary art. Bohdan shares his journey in documenting lesser-known Ukrainian artists, reflecting on the importance of understanding Ukraine's art history in the global context. Listeners gain insight into the innovative models supporting Ukrainian art, including the privately funded Mercury Center for Intellectual Art. The dialogue underscores the vital role of art in visualizing the world and fostering a vibrant cultural identity, even amid the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.   Links: https://ciamercury.com/en/about-us/?srsltid=AfmBOorgTdTn0p3sTAhdCRqeliWmnrIreZtAAWzuZFy6U-rlhObnvrTC   https://www.artsy.net/partner/center-of-intellectual-art-mercury   https://lvivgallery.org.ua/museums/muzey-modernizmu     music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)  

In this engaging episode of The Art Business Podcast, host David Bellingham sits down with Anastasia Lander, Associate Director at Pelham Communications in London and a notable alumna of Sotheby’s Institute of Art. Anastasia shares her fascinating journey from shaping the world's biggest beauty brands like Dior and MAC to navigating the dynamic landscapes of international art communications. Anastasia discusses her initial exposure to art through family influences and her academic journey at Sotheby’s Institute, as well as her experiences at global events such as the Venice Biennale. The conversation explores her career transition from PR for luxury cosmetics to the art world, revealing how the meticulous skills from the beauty industry informed her current role in art communications. Listeners will gain insights into Anastasia’s strategic expertise, especially in managing international projects in regions such as Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan, and her ability to adapt and craft stories that resonate across different cultural landscapes. Join this adventure into the intersection of art, business, and cultural storytelling, reflecting on their vibrant fusion in today's global art scene.   Links: https://pelhamcommunications.com/ https://landerlander.com/   music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)

Welcome back to the Art Business Podcast with David Bellingham, Programme Director at MA Art Business at Sotheby's Institute of Art in London. In this episode, David engages in an enlightening conversation with Anna Kuznetsova, Managing Director of Conscious Tech BV and Board Chair of Art Zuiderzee. Anna's rich experience across law, business, and the arts offers listeners a masterclass in blending strategic thinking with creative ambition. Join them as they revisit their recent study trip to the Netherlands, exploring TEFAF art fair, artists' studios and exhibitions, and engaging in discussions on the impact of global market dynamics on the art scene. Anna shares insights from her guest lectures and her unique journey from a young artist to a leader in global business initiatives. The episode also touches on the fascinating world of cross-cultural influences, particularly the rise of Chinese art in the West, and the recently rediscovered legacy of Ukrainian artist Alexander Bogomazov (1880-1930). Anna also sheds light on the innovative Art Zuiderzee initiative and its significance in connecting history with contemporary art. Tune in for a journey through the intricate world of art and business, enriched by Anna Kuznetsova's unique art business perspective.   Biography: Anna Kuznetsova is a dynamic global leader with over 20 years of experience spanning investment management, government contracting, art advocacy, and international relations. As Managing Director of a Conscious tech B.V., she strategically guides a Dutch investment fund focused on the US government contracting industry. Her portfolio includes serving as Board Chair at Art Zuiderzee, a cultural heritage foundation that spans its activities across the historic Zuiderzee region, and as Board Member at Alagant Tech LLC, supporting public sector IT services. With an educational background including a Master's in Art Business from Sotheby's Institute of Art (with Distinction), a BA in Law, and training at London Business School, Anna brings a rare combination of business acumen, artistic passion, and cross-cultural expertise to her endeavors. Fluent in multiple languages and experienced across Asia, Europe, and North America, she excels at building strategic partnerships that bridge diverse sectors and cultures, creating meaningful impact through innovation and social responsibility.   Links:  www.linkedin.com/in/anna-kuznetsova-1858571 https://www.artzuiderzee.com/art-zuiderzee-about-us-en.html   music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)

Welcome to another captivating edition of the Art Business Podcast, where we are absorbed into the fascinating world of art and business with some of the academic faculty from Sotheby's Institute of Art. Join us as Dr David Bellingham, Programme Director of the MA in Art Business, leads a compelling discussion with his esteemed colleagues. Meet Dr. Melanie Fasche, Deputy Programme Director and Senior Lecturer, who shares her intriguing journey from economic geography to becoming a thought leader in the creative industries. Dr. Oliver Petersen Gilbert, Head of Learning Innovation, provides insights into the evolving relationship between art, the market and their place in wider culture.  Dr. Marina Maximova offers a unique perspective on Russian and Eastern European art, exploring the dynamic intersections of finance and art collecting as well as her passionate drive towards sustainability in the art world. Together, they investigate some current trends in the art market, the impact of technology, and the importance of sustainability. This episode takes you beyond the classroom, discussing the latest research, innovative teaching methods, and the future of art and cultural policy. Tune in for an enriching conversation that bridges theory and practice in the ever-evolving art business landscape. Link: https://www.sothebysinstitute.com/london/masters-programs/ma-art-business     music ‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama)  by TOT TAYLOR is used by kind permission of the artist ©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)