A sincere thank you to Professor Maria Cudowska and the Syracuse University College of Law for inviting me back to speak, this time on the intersection of Art, AI, and National Security.

I went in thinking I’d be sharing a few “notes from the field,” but left realizing I may have learned just as much as I taught. It was a real pleasure thinking on my feet and fielding astute questions about how the art world was, and how it’s evolving, for better and for worse.

Thirty years ago, this business was built on handshakes and gut instinct. Today, we’re navigating a world where identities can be manufactured, documents can be simulated, and speed can work against you if you’re not careful. The tools have changed, but the responsibility hasn’t. So, we adapt. We verify more. We slow things down. We build layers of trust. And we live by the maxim: “Trust, but verify.”

But what really stood out to me wasn’t just the topic… it was the students. Sharp. Curious. Thoughtful. Engaged.

These are the individuals who will take the ball and run with it. They’ll shape policy, build better systems, and (hopefully) close some of the gaps we in the art world have been working around for years. And who knows… maybe one of them will be the person who finally drags the art market out of the shadows and into a more transparent, accountable future. Maybe Enrique figures out how to close the remaining gaps in money laundering oversight. Perhaps Jackie writes the bill that protects both the mystery and the market when artists (or intrepid reporters) decide to pull back the curtain. Perhaps Matteo develops a framework for ethical tax strategy in high-value transactions and institutional giving. Perhaps another student formalizes a licensure process of art dealers. The list goes on…

(If y’all have questions… I have a few notes.)

Maria, my friend. your ability to connect disciplines and create these conversations is something special. Kat and I are incredibly grateful to be included (and deeply appreciative of your support of ComicKids.org).

I’d do this again in a heartbeat. Because if the next generation is this engaged… we’re in very good hands. 🎨