Research

Art, Provenance and the Stories Artworks Carry

I am currently undertaking Master's research examining how the stories, histories and relationships that give artworks their meaning can be preserved over time.

Once an artwork leaves the artist's hands, it enters a life of its own. It may pass through galleries, private collections and exhibitions before reaching new custodians. In the course of these transfers, significant information can be lost. This includes the identity of the maker, the work's origins, the circumstances of its creation and the record of those who have cared for it.

This research considers how improved records and systems might allow such information to remain with the artwork. In doing so, it aims to support artists, strengthen transparency and protect the cultural value of a work as it moves through the market, while respecting privacy and ownership throughout.

Invitation to Participate

As part of this research, and to inform both my thesis and the development of a final product, I am seeking conversations with artists, gallerists, collectors, curators and other professionals in the art sector.

I welcome contributions from those with experience in managing artworks, perspectives on provenance and resale, or other insights relevant to the field. Introductions, recommendations and suggested reading that may inform the research are also gratefully received.

To participate or to request further information, please contact research@rachelmataira.com.

This research has undergone formal review and has received ethics approval (Ethics Approval Number: MTF.8206.355) to conduct these public conversations. All correspondence sent to research@rachelmataira.com is received solely by Rachel Mataira. Any data collected is carefully managed and will be disposed of once the thesis and accompanying work are completed.