We are pleased to be launching a new series at the Institute of Art and Law featuring alumni from our courses.

Becky Shaw, Senior Associate at Boodle Hatfield and IAL alumna

Becky Shaw, Senior Associate at Boodle Hatfield, participated in our Diploma in Art Law. Read about her background working with the art litigation team at Boodle Hatfield and experience with distance learning at the Institute of Art and Law.

Can you tell us a little bit about your career and background?
After graduating from Cambridge with a degree in Social and Political Sciences, I did the GDL and LPC at Guildford College of Law, before beginning a training contract at Boodle Hatfield in 2010. During my training, I was lucky enough to work with the art litigation team, which sparked my interest in the area. After qualifying at Boodle, I continued to develop my specialism, working on a wide range of arts cases, and undertaking an art history course at the Courtauld, a Diploma with the IAL, and a secondment at the Arts Council. In January 2019 I became a Trustee of the De Morgan Foundation and in May I was promoted to a Senior Associate in the art litigation team.

What aspects of studying with the Institute of Art and Law did you enjoy most?
The IAL Diploma was invaluable in covering a broad range of topics – both those I was familiar with, and those which were new to me, but which enhanced my understanding and complemented my practice. The flexibility of the distance learning course allowed me to complete the Diploma alongside my day-to-day work.

How has the IAL course enhanced your career?
The IAL course has given me a deeper and broader understanding of a full range of legal issues which arise in arts matters. It gave me the time to delve into the law in greater detail and the course materials are a really useful reference tool.

What advice would you give to someone considering studying with the IAL?
I would highly recommend the IAL to anyone considering studying there. The courses are thorough without being daunting, and the tutors are always on hand to provide helpful assistance. The IAL seminars are always useful too and allow you to meet others working in the same area.

The Diploma in Art Law is offered throughout the year on rolling admissions. Learn more about the structure of the course and how to apply.