Navigating Cultural Voices, on Law & Entrepreneurship in the Arts

HALO x HALA x WLA x BLSA x HFLA

The Harvard Art Law Organization, kindly co-sponsored by Women’s Law Association, Harvard African Law Association, Harvard Black Law Students Association, and Harvard Fashion Law Association is excited to host three incredible female trailblazers in the art industry, Oyinkansola Dada, Tania Phipps-Rufus, and Tanya Layne, for what is sure to be a fascinating conversation on navigating legal and business complexities in the art world.

Our panelists—a gallery owner, a Chief Legal Officer, and a legal scholar—will delve into key legal challenges facing artists, galleries, and cultural institutions, from intellectual property protection and contractual negotiations to cultural property laws and ethical concerns in art transactions. We’ll also examine how legal frameworks shape artistic movements, impact marginalized communities, and adapt to technological advancements like NFTs. Please do not miss this unique event with these important voices, food will be provided!

Oyinkansola Dada is founder and gallery owner of Dada gallery and creator of Dada magazine. A qualified solicitor, she has achieved enormous success with constructing a space in which to champion underrepresented artists from the Black Diaspora in the art space. 

Tanya Layne is the Chief Legal Officer of Gagosian. She not only worked in private practice, but has over ten years of experience at Sotheby’s as Senior Vice President and Associate General Counsel. 

Tania Phipps-Rufus is a specialist in fashion law, intellectual property (IP), business, and cultural analysis, known for her comprehensive insights on legal trends, cultural shifts, and industry innovation. As a Senior Lecturer and course leader at the University of East London, she combines her background to explore critical issues at the intersections of contemporary culture.