Each day there are many news stories revolving around the world of art. A theft, a rediscovery, forgeries, acts of terrorism, a restoration, lawsuits or restitutions…the list goes on and on.

In our media packed world, it is difficult to keep up on current happenings and even more challenging to see the implications to those people involved; collectors, museums, auction houses, the world of art and to our society and cultural heritage.

Tracking the typical art crime news of a day, we will then examine the stories and capers of today as well as the recent year. These cases have or will affect the future of the art world legally and most certainly morally and ethically.

Once again, grab your legal pad and sharpen your pencil. Come catch up on the latest Art Crimes!

Christine Maasdam holds a Master in Humanities and a B.A. in Cultural Geography. Her art studies include The Courtauld Institute of Art in London, The Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center in D.C. and Post Graduate studies in Antiquities Trafficking and Art Crime at the University of Glasgow. She is a graduate of the Art Crime Investigation Seminar led by Robert Wittman, founder of the FBI's National Art Crime Team. Christine is a member of the International Foundation for Cultural Property Protection and holds a certificate from Trident Manor on Protection of Cultural Venues. Christine received Sotheby’s certification on Determining Value: An Appraiser’s Perspective. She has spent over a decade as a LACMA docent and is an active volunteer at the City of David archaeological dig in Israel.

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people 50 years of age and older, seeking intellectual stimulation through university-level courses — without the pressure of grades — for the sake of learning and social engagement.

This lecture can be attended on Zoom and will be recorded.