The Job Description of a Gallery Curator
A gallery curator is responsible for directing the affairs of the gallery they work at, including managing instructional programs, research, and public or community activities. This can be a rewarding career for organized, motivated individuals who have a passion for working with art and the public.
Other People Are Reading
-
Responsibilities
-
The duties of a gallery curator are numerous and include multiple aspects of the gallery's daily and overall affairs. She is responsible for the acquisition, storage, and exhibition of artifacts, works of art, and collections in the gallery and must maintain the gallery's registration and cataloging systems. She also provides information on the collection to other curators and the public. Curators are responsible for training and supervising other staff in the gallery, as well as volunteers and interns. They are responsible for the purchase, sale, and loan of collections. Curators also plan research projects as necessary, and conduct tours, workshops, and instruction to the public or individuals. Other duties include working with the board of directors on policies and budget as well as attending any meetings, conventions, or events as necessary.
Qualifications
-
Most gallery curator positions require education beyond a bachelor's degree., such as a master's degree or a Ph.D. in museum studies, art history, or other related area. Curator positions that involve many managerial and administrative tasks may desire applicants with courses in business administration, public relations, and marketing. Experience working in galleries either as a volunteer or through an internship will also make applicants more competitive. Beyond education and experience, gallery curators must have computer skills and the ability to manage large databases. They must also have a creative skill for designing and creating exhibits. Curators also must excel as leaders in order to manage their gallery and its staff effectively.
-
Salary
-
The average annual salary for curators in May 2008, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, was $52,330. Some of the highest paying industries were the Federal Executive Branch with an average annual salary of $80,270, elementary and secondary schools with an average annual salary of $61,320, and colleges, universities, and professional schools with an average annual salary of $58,020. The industries employing the largest number of curators were colleges, universities, and professional schools with 1,650 curators employed, and museums and historical sites, with 5,790 curators employed and an average salary of $48,640 per year.
Work Environment
-
A gallery curator's work environment varies depending on the specific gallery. Some curators will spend much of their time working with the public providing instructional programs and services. Others will focus on research and acquisitions. Curators who are responsible for installing work may be required to handle heavy or bulky objects. Those employed in larger institutions may also be required to travel extensively in order to evaluate possible additions to the gallery.
Employment Outlook
-
Job opportunities for curators between 2008 and 2018 are expected to grow much faster than average, about 20 percent, according to the BLS. Continued attendance at museums and galleries will allow galleries to remain in good financial standing. Applicants can expect to face competition for curator jobs, and may have to work as volunteers, interns, or part time in order to gain an opportunity for a full-time position.
-
References
- Photo Credit art image by cico from Fotolia.com
