Curator Job Description

"The curator job description is generally thought to be related only to maintenance of the museum. However, we have various other responsibilities associated with the working system of the museum. Getting the people to see the art and museum exhibitions is very crucial as that only determines the popularity and success of museum. We don't just hang paintings, collect historic materials and display antique items. The job description of a curator is not just to guide people to have a walk through a gallery or a museum, instead we put in our heart and soul to send invitations to as many people as possible and do everything that makes people visit the art gallery/museums." ~ Lucy, the curator of a Museum.

Museums and art galleries are always a source of curiosity and lovers of art never miss an opportunity to visit museums and art exhibitions. Ever wondered how are the antique materials maintained in the old museums and who are the people who work hard to preserve the identity of such treasures? Well, they are none other than, curators! Many people think that the job of curator is restricted to maintenance of the museums, however, the curator job description has various other facets.

Job Description

The curator job description involves managing and organizing art shows, exhibitions and art auctions. The main job of curator is to attract crowds in the museum by maintaining and keeping the grandeur of the museum intact. Curators acquire materials for keeping in the museums and they have to do extensive research, negotiate on prices and buy items like sculptures, statues and paintings that can add value to the museum.

Curators are responsible for taking proper care of art collections in the museum and they have to ensure that collections in the museum are preserved. Through research and by using testing methods like x-ray analysis and fossil dating tests, the curators determine the authenticity of work. The curator job description typically includes activities that raise funds and grants for the museum.

Curator Responsibilities

There are hosts of responsibilities that curators are expected to perform. Some of typical curator duties have been mentioned here:

• Maintaining records and cataloging acquisitions on daily/weekly/monthly basis.
• Researching, compiling and preparing written information about catalogs.
• Writing information about materials in the museum and pasting it on the museum website.
• Writing about events, exhibitions and presenting information about museum through internal and external publications.
• Mediating and advising governments, voluntary groups, schools, colleges, grant agencies for grants, funds and free aids.
• Advise management boards of the museum in staff selection, administration selection and renovation requirements.
• Looks after budgets, contracts and schedule.
• Remain updated about current knowledge of design concepts, techniques, technology, innovations etc.
• Prepare sketches, drawings and other specifications as per required for museum.
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge and understanding of historic preservation and exhibitions.
• Assist employees and staff working in the museums. Guide them for carrying out specific responsibilities.

Salary of a Curator

Generally, curators require a master's degree in subjects related to history and arts. If you are applying for a post of curator in reputed museums, then a doctorate may be the requirement. Competition in this field has grown over years and so an aspirant must be ready to face tough competition. According to various sources, salary range for curators in 2010, having work experience of less than a year is between US$ 30,000 to US$ 40,000. With increase in work experience (between 1 to 4 years), the curators can earn up to US$ 40,000 to US$ 60,000. A curator with a work experience of about 20 years, can earn salaries as high as US$ 70,000.

Being a curator offers unique career opportunities for students who have always been fascinated by museums, arts and ancient history. Since this field has expanded in the recent years, the curator job description covers many job responsibilities. Anybody interested in this field can definitely think of this career as an option.