In today’s episode of the Artalogue, Madison chats with Yayoi Shionoiri, VP of External Affairs and General Counsel at Powerhouse Arts. Coming to her legal practice with a unique blend of art history knowledge and legal expertise, Shionoiri has spent over two decades championing artists and navigating intricate legal challenges in contemporary art and estate management. From her beginnings in corporate law to her influential roles at institutions like the Guggenheim Museum and Artsy, Shionoiri‘s career journey has much to learn from for aspiring lawyers and artists alike!

We discuss how her undergraduate research into the conceptual art and subsequent trial of Genpei Akasegawa prompted her to learn more about and eventually help artists navigate the limits of artistic and free expression.

Shionoiri also shares her personal journey from corporate law to the niche field of art law, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with pursuing a unique career path. Her experiences in the vibrant art scenes of Tokyo and New York provide a comparative outlook on how cultural nuances shape artistic innovation and the laws around it.

Aspiring art lawyers will find her advice invaluable—emphasizing the importance of mastering legal fundamentals while balancing a deep understanding of the art world. Shionoiri‘s interest in the intersection of copyright, AI, and creativity in today's digital age raises crucial questions about the future of art and law. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that promises to inspire artists, lawyers, and art enthusiasts alike.

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Madison Beale, Host
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