Patrons, the prototypes of philanthropists, emerged as key figures in advancing the arts during the Renaissance. Their role and sphere of influence have shifted over the centuries, and today new forms such as micro-patrons and business angels are on the rise—modalities that continue to change lives.
If we focus on its official definition, a patron is someone who provides part of their wealth or network of contacts and puts it at the service of artists, scientists, or writers. In this way, they receive crucial support to produce and share their works and projects with the world.
When discussing art during the Renaissance, it is common to mention those wealthy and influential families without whose financial support the great masters—of unquestionable talent—could never have created the masterpieces that still beautify the world today. In Italy, the most famous patron families included the Medicis (Florence), the Gonzagas (Mantua), the Sforzas (Milan), and the D’Estes (Ferrara).
After the Middle Ages, a period marked by artistic obscurity, the scene began to change. The nobility and European bourgeoisie assumed a new role, taking up the banner of promoting the arts. In the 15th and 16th centuries, they became the driving force behind artistic development. They also extended their support to science and knowledge, since the Renaissance embraced both the “hard” disciplines like mathematics and the “ethereal” ones like philosophy, in pursuit of a new understanding of humanity and the world.
The later consolidation of the bourgeoisie was decisive for the birth of patronage. Members of the bourgeoisie gradually developed an interest in intangible goods—those that enrich the soul with beauty and, ultimately, refined culture. Many invested their savings in artistic projects and even financed the entire careers of their favorite artists.
The Figure of the Patron and Its Transformations Over Time
Simplifying somewhat, the bourgeoisie could be seen as the art collectors of their era. The rewards for their financial support were varied. Patronage not only conferred social prestige but was also regarded as a savvy financial operation for the future or as a way to elevate social relationships. When the support was genuine, however, the reward lay in personal satisfaction.
It was also customary for the patron to keep the artwork once completed, later making it available to the public in museums, institutions, or foundations. To understand how this influential figure has evolved—both then and now—it is necessary to delve into the cultural frameworks of each country. Today, the philanthropic activities of figures like Bill and Melinda Gates, Warren Buffett, and George Soros are widely known, but undoubtedly, technology has expanded and democratized this practice.
In a connected world where everyone can participate in cyberspace, anyone can now become a donor or sponsor of a cause, a noble effort, an artistic endeavor, or even a micro-investor. This applies to both large and small contributors. Modern technology has woven durable, invisible networks linking them all together.
The forms and rewards may vary, but technology ensures the same result: strong cooperation within virtual communities that turn ideas into reality. Micropatronage, in particular, is ideal for small-scale artistic projects. On the other hand, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have opened new independent funding streams for established artists, with figures like Sylvester Stallone and Kevin Smith making notable contributions in this arena.
What Is a Business Angel?
This evocative term, translated as “angels of business,” originated with patrons who funded theater productions on New York’s Broadway in the early 20th century. Today, the concept of the business angel is more closely tied to those who contribute to the development of creative businesses—either through direct financial support or by providing “smart capital,” that is, expertise, contacts, or know-how.
These private investors are crucial in the entrepreneurial world, as such projects often lack the track record needed to secure traditional financing. Online platforms and virtual communities now connect startups with modern patrons, making technology the best ally in linking today’s philanthropists with their future beneficiaries.
