What does an Art Manager do?
Art directors are responsible for overseeing the care of valuable art pieces within a collection. This role also requires managing staff to ensure the proper care for different pieces of art, as well as ensuring strict guidelines exist that help determine how each piece of art is handled. Art directors regularly plan and organize new exhibitions, and work to procure new artwork for display within a museum, art gallery, or public and private space. Advancement into this position often follows successful years of service within an art gallery or museum, as well as through proven work in art and art history.
Art directors should possess a Bachelor's degree in art, graphic design, or other art-related fields. A Master's degree in a related field may be preferred, while a PhD in a related field may be preferred for more prestigious art director positions. This role requires significant and proven attention to detail, as well as strong communication and leadership skills.
- Utilize proven art skills and experience to create and implement new projects
- Collaborate with designers and other team members to implement creative direction
- Work independently to create initial drawings, storyboards, or architectural designs for art spaces
- Support the vision of the organization to help fulfill short and long term goals
- Work to procure equipment and items necessary for new art projects
- Communicate with local officials, news organizations and the community to create interest in upcoming initiatives
- Work with clients to design and create projects, as needed
- Reach out to business leaders, officials, and others to create new relationships for the organization
- Master's degree or PhD in art-related field may be preferred for some positions
- 1-5 years of experience in an art-related field or more, depending on the size of the organization
- Previous business experience, to include sales and marketing
- Ability to communicate across levels of an organization, including with executives and other senior-level officers
- Comfort liaising with community and business leaders to arrange and promote projects
- A strong understanding of modern graphic design software, including products such as InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop
- Proven leadership skills and a talent for providing effective feedback and direction
- Comfort using computer operating systems, including Microsoft Office and MacOS, as well as common productivity tools such as Microsoft Office Suite
- Notably creative with a desire to merge knowledge and experience with business and art
Art Manager Salaries near United Kingdom
Average Base Pay
Art Manager Career Path
Learn how to become an Art Manager, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Art Manager Insights
Cheil Worldwide“And so far there is an excellent bonus system based off of your performance review.”
Interface Engineering“Our team coordinator is fantastic and I really feel lucky to have joined this group.”
The Arterie“I always feel support from my team and I love the cool projects that we get to work on.”
Artex“Fun place to work with interesting opportunities to interact with museums and private owners of art work.”
Apple“Fantastic company to work at and I have been enjoying my time greatly working with some amazing artists and designers.”
DCG Communications“I have had some amazing opportunities and have grown so much in my career while working at DCG.”
Rule29 Creative“These initiatives fall outside of your billable workload but are given the same weight and priority.”
DreamView“Every project is a team effort and I'm really proud of the work we produce.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of an Art Manager
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