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Art Curators identify and recommend art pieces, artefacts, and display material for acquisition by galleries and museums. They may organise the purchase of local artworks to add to the gallery’s permanent collection, arrange exhibitions for key artists, or negotiate the loan of a signature piece (or genre collection) from another gallery. In larger galleries they may work under the supervision of a senior curator.
As an Art Curator you could be researching the suitability of proposed collection pieces, arranging for restoration work on an important artefact, planning the layout and lighting for an upcoming exhibition, delivering a public lecture at an exhibition opening event, collaborating with a group of artists in a complimentary genre, or updating the gallery database and records system.
There are 2 courses available for people who want to become an Art Curator.
Possible job outcomes:
The Bachelor of Arts (Art History) provides an extensive understanding of art history and markets through specialized study in areas like antiquity, modernism, or indigenous art. This course equips students with historical knowledge and analytical skills to comprehend and connect art works across time and culture. Students acquire skills in visual and spatial analysis, enabling interpretation of diverse art forms, from traditional painting and sculpture to unconventional mediums like performance art and land art..
Average duration: 3 years.
The Bachelor of Arts (Performing Arts) focuses on the intersection of performance, innovation, community engagement, and technology. It emphasizes the transformative role of the performing arts in society. Students hone their physical and creative abilities through hands-on learning, exploring historical and theoretical aspects while collaborating with digital technologies and other art forms. Core skills like acting, dance, dramaturgy, and choreography are cultivated, along with techniques for collaborative and site-specific performances..
Salaries for Art Curators start at $70,000 per annum. Increase your earning capacity by positioning yourself as an expert in a specialist field and gaining post-graduate and research qualifications.
There are 1,100 Art Curators working in Australian galleries and museums right now. They are employed by government organisations and private galleries. Some Art Curators accept volunteer positions with community arts organisations.
To launch your career as an Art Curator you will need a Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor of Art History, plus post-graduate qualifications in a specialist area such as classics and ancient history, indigenous studies, or archeology. You will also benefit from a Graduate Certificate (or Masters) of Museum and Heritage Studies.
If you’re serious about becoming an Art Curator, we recommend contacting the The Art Association of Australia and New Zealand which is the peak body for art academics and professionals including gallery curators.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within arts and culture. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Arts and Culture
Library Assistant
$960 weekly pay
Museum Assistant
Archivist
$1,250 weekly pay
Art Curator
$1,350 weekly pay
Conservator
$1,308 weekly pay
Cultural Advisor
Curator
Heritage Consultant
Historian
$1,530 weekly pay
Historical Researcher
Librarian
Museum Curator
Art Historian
$1,950 weekly pay
Cultural Heritage Officer
$2,020 weekly pay
Heritage Specialist
Senior Curator
$1,925 weekly pay