OAFP 9715 - Art, Power & Patronage: Building the Cultural Ecosystem in the Middle East (1900–Present)

This course examines the evolution of the Middle Eastern cultural ecosystem through the lens of artistic production, state policy, and private philanthropy. Moving beyond a purely formalist history, students will explore how 20th-century independence movements and 21st-century "soft power" strategies have utilized art as a tool for nation-building and social impact. We will analyse the transition from early state-led initiatives to the contemporary museum boom in the Gulf, underpinned by emerging global philanthropic models. Through a series of case studies and exclusive conversations with international museum directors and collectors, students will analyse the mechanics of institutional building. Ultimately, the course provides the critical and professional tools necessary to navigate the complexities of global cultural diplomacy and the creative economy.

The course, which relies on a series of text excerpts selected throughout the semester, does not require any prior specialised knowledge except for general knowledge on international cultural policy.

Pedagogical format will alternate between:

• “What's in the news?” discussion (15 min), followed by an introduction to the geography or sector (90 min), and a Q&A (15 min).
• “What's in the news?” discussion (15 min), followed by a student presentation (30min), and a Q&A (15 min), a speaker presentation (45 min), and a Q&A (15 min).

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• Participation Grade (20%): Based on active engagement during discussions. 2. Oral Presentation (40%): A presentation focusing on a topical issue. 3. Group Research Paper (40%): A collaborative paper on a topic chosen from a list provided at the beginning of the semester. Students will be evaluated on their ability to work as a team, the relevance of their research question, the precision of their analysis, and the clarity of their delivery.

The course will be supported by a selection of text excerpts that students are expected to have read prior to each session. Students must prepare questions for sessions featuring guest speakers.