21st Century Collecting

First-hand insights from artists, collectors and advisors

Join us for an intensive three-day course involving full days of studio and gallery visits combined with practical lectures on acquisitions, philanthropy, collection management, legacy and more.

21st Century Collecting
London Winter Intensive

Aimed at empowering collectors of all levels—from novices to veterans—with the knowledge and tools to effectively manage and enrich their collections, 21st Century Collecting is a three-day course crammed full of experiences and encounters in the art world. The course is designed to transform the often overwhelming responsibilities of collecting into an enriching and enjoyable journey. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this course provides invaluable insights and practical advice to enhance your collecting experience.

Led by Georgia Powell, co-founder of CURA Art, 21st Century Collecting offers participants a unique opportunity to learn directly from experts in the field in an intense series of studio and gallery visits and lectures, held over three days. The course covers essential aspects of collecting, such as how to document, manage, and ensure a legacy for your collection. Sessions are interactive, featuring real-life case studies and practical tips that can be directly applied to any collection. Powell's extensive experience in conservation, museum studies, and art curation, combined with her passion for promoting the role of private collectors, ensures a rich and insightful educational experience. Her connections across the art world will ensure you get unparalleled access as you meet artists and curators across up to ten London studios and contemporary art galleries.

Lectures emphasise the evolving role of the collector in the broader art ecosystem. Topics include strategic acquisition focusing on under-represented artists and the importance of patronage in sustaining the arts. Participants will explore how to build meaningful relationships with artists and specialists, and how to navigate the complexities of the art market. Through these discussions, collectors are positioned not just as owners but as crucial supporters and custodians of art, fostering a sense of responsibility and contribution to cultural heritage and creativity.
  • 25-27 March 2026
  • 10am-5pm GMT
  • Christie's London
  • £1,500

Study at the world's leading Auction House 

Christie’s, the world's oldest fine art auctioneer, has sold fine art, furniture, jewellery and wine since James Christie conducted the first sale in London on 5 December 1766. Christie’s London has continued to provide the perfect backdrop for the sales of the world’s finest collections and greatest works of art ever since.

Christie’s moved to its global headquarters at 8 King Street, St. James’s in 1823. The gallery spaces at King Street are transformed into classrooms during our exclusive programming in London, so that students are immersed in the fast-paced environment of the auction house.
Write your awesome label here.
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Certification Included

All attendees will be awarded a physical certificate of completion issued by Christie's Education at the end of the programme.

Course Schedule

To give you a sense of what to expect, this is the scheduled of the October 2025 iteration of 21st Century Collecting.
*Itinerary, topics and speakers are subject to change

Day 1

AM 09:30 Meet at reception at Christie's King Street

AM 09:45 Greetings with pastries, teas and coffees

AM 10:00 The Role of the Collector Today 
This session will introduce the course, and the role of the collector within history and today, considering why and how people have collected. Current collecting trends will be discussed, with case studies and helpful tips for navigating the art market and building relationships with key players.

AM 11:30 Panel Discussion: Collecting is Not Just Acquiring & Navigating the Art World in Meaningful Ways 
This session will explore the increasingly important role collectors have, and the fulfilling and impactful experience it can be. You will consider collecting strategy, and ways to focus your patronage. You will also learn about building meaningful relationships with artists, working with specialists, and how to be a part of the art eco-system through philanthropy.

PM 13:00 Participant's own lunch

PM 14:00 Panel Discussion: The Importance of Being Informed
This practical and informative workshop session will include several specialists and introduce important subjects to consider when owning art, including inventory management and documentation, research and due-diligence before and after sale, as well as how to safely display and store art with preservation in mind. Storage, framing and other logistics will be discussed, as well as the importance of valuations and appropriate insurance.

PM 16:00 A Tour of Christie's Warehouse

PM 17:00 Visit to Conservation Studio in Oval

PM 18:00 Day ends

Day 2

AM 10:00 Artist Studio Visit 

AM 12:00 Tour of London Commercial Galleries in Mayfair

PM 13:30 Participant’s own lunch

PM 14:30 Panel Discussion: Thinking to the Future and the Potential of Collections
In this session, we will hear from a group of collectors of varying disciplines and interests, and at different stages of their collecting journey. Their experiences and insight will provide inspiring and helpful knowledge, and summarise subjects covered throughout the course through real-life examples.

PM 16:30 Private visit to Collector's Home in Kensington

PM 17:30 Day ends

Day 3

AM 10:00 Private visit to Collector's Home in Knightsbridge

AM 11:30 Tour of British Art Fair highlights at Saatchi Gallery

PM 13:00 Participant’s own lunch

PM 14:30 Visit to London Commercial Galleries in Fitzrovia

PM 15:30 Private visit to Collector's Home in Fitzrovia

PM 17:00 Course ends

Learn from the best of London's collections

A rare glimpse into the best of London's collections: in the private galleries and residences of exceptional collectors.
Coupled with visits to artists' and conservation studios, galleries and expert panel discussions, 21st Century Collecting provides  unparalleled insight to begin your collection. 

Develop Strategic Collecting Skills

Gain the ability to develop a thoughtful collecting strategy that emphasises personal passion and support for under-represented artists, aiming to enhance the cultural and monetary value of your collection.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

Learn best practices for inventory management, documentation, and due diligence to efficiently manage and preserve a collection, ensuring its legacy and integrity.

Navigate Art Relationships and Markets

Acquire skills to effectively build and maintain relationships with artists, curators, and specialists, and to navigate the complexities of the art market with confidence.

Implement Practical Preservation Techniques

Master practical techniques for the care, display, and storage of art, including understanding the importance of framing, storage conditions, and insurance.

Promote and Support Artistic Communities

Understand the role of patronage and philanthropy in the arts, and how to use your collection to support and promote contemporary artists and contribute positively to the broader art ecosystem.

Hear from our students:



"Absolutely superior team from Christie's. Dominic provided exceptional program design, leadership and facilitation. He was professional, attentive, and exceptionally knowledegable. Keep up the great work!"


"Outstanding level of programming, inspiring speakers, enriching content, and I liked the level the course was pitched at - intellectually stimulating for those already immersed in the industry, yet accessible."

All queries:

Christie's Education 

Telephone: +44 20 7839 9060
Email: education@christies.com

For more information please refer to our FAQs