Patronage, in the context of the arts, refers to the financial support or sponsorship provided by individuals or organizations to artists, musicians, writers, or other creatives. This support allows artists to pursue their work and produce new pieces without the constant pressure of commercial success or financial instability.

Historically, patronage played a crucial role in the arts. Many renowned artists, composers, and writers were able to produce their masterpieces thanks to the support of wealthy patrons. For example, the Medici family in Renaissance Italy famously supported artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Traditional patronage still exists, from dropping some cash in a tip jar in a Nashville honky-tonk to providing substantial support to artists and cultural institutions. In modern times patronage has evolved with platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter, where supporters can contribute to artists' projects on a recurring basis, or fund specific initiatives.