The Collector Hypothesis: Who Benefits More from Art, the Artist or the Collector?

Citation

Sorokowski P, Luty J, Małecki W, Roberts CS, Kowal M & Davies S (2024) The Collector Hypothesis: Who Benefits More from Art, the Artist or the Collector?. Roberts CS (Researcher) Human Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12110-024-09481-7

Abstract
Human fascination with art has deep evolutionary roots, yet its role remains a puzzle for evolutionary theory. Although its widespread presence across cultures suggests a potential adaptive function, determining its evolutionary origins requires more comprehensive evidence beyond mere universality or assumed survival benefits. This paper introduces and tests the Collector Hypothesis, which suggests that artworks serve as indicators of collectors’ surplus wealth and social status, offering greater benefits to collectors than to artists in mating and reproductive contexts. Our study among Indigenous Papuan communities provides preliminary support for the Collector Hypothesis, indicating that, compared to artists, collectors are perceived as having higher social status and greater attractiveness to women. These findings provide unique insights into Papuan communities and contribute to the ongoing discussion about art’s adaptive significance of art by suggesting that artistic capacities may benefit not only creators but also those who accumulate and display art. Further research in diverse cultural contexts is needed for a comprehensive understanding of this interplay.

Keywords
Collector hypothesis; Art collecting; Papuan art; Evolutionary theory; Fitness indicators

Journal
Human Nature

• The Collector Hypothesis Who Benefits More from Art, the Artist or the Collector?