patron of the arts
/ˈpeɪtrən əv ðə ɑːrts/
Meaning
A person, often wealthy or influential, who supports artists, writers, musicians, or cultural institutions through financial backing, endorsement, or sponsorship. Historically, this support allowed classical artists to work without financial worry.
Examples
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The wealthy philanthropist was well-known as a generous patron of the arts.
The wealthy philanthropist was well-known as a generous patron of the arts.
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Without the support of a wealthy patron of the arts, the young painter could not have afforded studio space.
Without the support of a wealthy patron of the arts, the young painter could not have afforded studio space.
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The museum dedicated its new wing to its most prominent patron of the arts.
The museum dedicated its new wing to its most prominent patron of the arts.
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Historically, monarchs and aristocrats acted as the primary patrons of the arts.
Historically, monarchs and aristocrats acted as the primary patrons of the arts.
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She aspires to become a patron of the arts once her business venture succeeds.
She aspires to become a patron of the arts once her business venture succeeds.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He is a patron of arts who funds local galleries.
✓ He is a patron of the arts who funds local galleries.
The full idiom requires the definite article 'the' before 'arts' ('patron of the arts').
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✗ The foundation acts as a patron for the arts.
✓ The foundation acts as a patron of the arts.
The standard preposition used in this established phrase is 'of', not 'for'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Lorenzo de' Medici was perhaps the most famous ___ during the Italian Renaissance.
💡 A wealthy supporter of artistic endeavors.
Show answer
patron of the arts
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To support local talent, she decided to become a ___ by funding theater scholarships.
💡 Someone who financially backs cultural activities.
Show answer
patron of the arts