Art Gallery Curator

Typical Salary

£18,000 To £40,000

Typical Hours

38 to 40 a week

evenings / weekends flexibly

How To Become a Art Gallery Curator

You can get into this job through:

a university course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
artistic reputation

College / University

You'll often need a degree in a relevant subject like fine art or art history.

2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

Apprenticeship

You may be able to start by doing an advanced apprenticeship in heritage and cultural operations.

5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

You could work as an assistant curator, conservator or education manager before becoming a gallery curator.

Other Routes

You may be invited to guest curate a gallery, if you're an artist with an established reputation in the art world.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

knowledge of English language
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
an interest and knowledge of history
knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
to be flexible and open to change
the ability to use your initiative
the ability to work well with others
excellent verbal communication skills
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Day To Day Tasks

In your day-to-day duties you might:

research, identify and catalogue paintings and other items
make sure paintings and other items are stored in the right conditions
organise displays and exhibitions
answer visitors’ questions
give talks to groups or school parties
find ways of attracting visitors to the gallery
negotiate funding and the loan of paintings and other items

Working Environment

You could work in a museum or at an art gallery.

Your working environment may be physically demanding.

Career Path & Progression

Career Path & Progression are not listed for this job.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Museums Association for professional development and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about getting into the museum sector from the Museums Association.

You can also find out more about working in related careers from Discover Creative Careers.

Restrictions & Requirements

Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.