How to Become an Art Journalist

Art journalists write about artists and their work.

Art journalists write about the visual arts for newspapers and magazines. They may also report on art issues for television or radio, acting as the art correspondent. Naturally, as an art journalist, you must have an interest in art and artists, with a good understanding of art techniques and art history. You also need journalistic skills and a portfolio of published work to gain acceptance with editors in the media.

Instructions

1. Develop your knowledge of art by obtaining a degree in a relevant topic, such as art history or fine arts. Visit galleries and museums regularly to keep up-to-date with developments in the arts. By developing your knowledge, you can build expertise and publish authoritative opinions on specific works of art, individual artists, emerging schools of art, artistic trends and the state of the artistic community.

2. Train as a journalist. Obtain a bachelor's degree in journalism, English or communications, which will provide an acceptable qualification if you apply for a salaried post in the media. If you can combine your writing-based degree with an art-related course, it will provide an even stronger qualification for a professional career in art journalism.

3. Create a portfolio of published work. Take every opportunity to write about art. Offer articles to newspapers and magazines as a freelance contributor. Look for publishers of independent art reviews; they may not pay for contributions, but published work in those reviews can help establish your reputation. Approach galleries and museums and ask to write reviews or catalog content for exhibitions.

4. Specialize in a particular aspect of art, such as a period in the history of art or the work of an individual artist. While most newspapers and general interest magazines publish articles on all aspects of art, dedicated art publications or art channels may look for a journalist with special knowledge of a technique or period.

5. Approach editors of newspapers and magazines that publish art columns. Ask about vacancies as a salaried art journalist or opportunities as a freelance contributor. Send your resume to specialist art magazines.

6. Look for opportunities in radio or television as an art presenter or correspondent. Hone your presentation skills by offering to appear on local radio or cable television stations, particularly channels specializing in the arts. Approach station editors with details of your knowledge and presentation experience. Offer to design programs on topics in your particular field.

References

• Inside Jobs: What is an Art Critic?
• Education-Portal: Become an Art Writer
• USNPL: U.S. Newspapers