Art & Finance question: Are there still "Patrons of the arts" or is that not really done anymore?

It’s pretty unlikely. Not that it doesn’t happen, but most “patrons” tend to support organizations (like the opera, etc.) with their large donations rather than individuals.

You can crowdsource your art financing (I am) through something like Kickstarter. I’ve got a few invites to give away there if you have a project you want to try.

Yupp loads.

Here’s one: http://www.osherfoundation.org/index.php?foundation

@Cartman Osher Foundation doesn’t seem to support individual artists, unless I mis-read their programs? =)

I know that they have done so previously. If not they, then there are many grants and scholarships that you can apply for. Where are you based?

Here’s another one you might try: http://www.fastweb.com/ – but then maybe you aren’t a student?!?

It all depends, of course. In Sweden they have just abolished state salaries which a select few artist held for life. That would have been good (had you been in Sweden). Sweden is littered with grants for artist – but then again, that might not help you. However, it does say something about the willingness of the rich and famous to spread their glory for the betterment of the fine arts. Since giving away your money to the betterment of others and society in general is in no way tax deductible in Sweden, the practice should, reasonably, be more widespread in the US where it is.

There are gazillions of arts patrons.
They richer ones tend to lean more towards organizations though, as those provide a good social context & (particularly if it’s a well established organization) they’re less likely to see their money go to ‘waste’.

^ not saying your art is a waste, I’m just pointing out the mindset I tend to see in this demographic

If I were you, I’d go out and make the connections myself. The arts are all about networking, networking, networking, with a hefty dose of talent & innovation thrown in. Start attending those events these arts patrons attend if you want to get noticed by them.

Good luck!

Of course there are, and many actually pay for commissioned art. The artists are usually recommended by their art instructors or mentors, and sometimes ‘found’ in art galleries.

You might be able to find an agent who will get you the kind of exposure you need.

Goldman Sachs paid a boatload for the two huge mural paintings in the lobby of their new headquarters building.