Art Technician Career Guide
1. Career Path for Art Technicians: A Step-by-Step Guide
Art technicians are responsible for assisting artists, curators, and museum professionals in the preparation, installation, and maintenance of art exhibitions and collections. The typical career path involves the following steps:
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Consider pursuing an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in art, art history, museum studies, or a related field.
- Gain hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions in art galleries, museums, or art studios.
- Develop specialized skills in areas such as art handling, exhibition installation, art conservation, or art transportation.
- Explore opportunities for career advancement, such as lead technician, registrar, or collections manager roles.
- Consider pursuing additional certifications or training in areas like art conservation or museum studies.
2. Qualifications for Becoming an Art Technician: Education and Skills Required
Education:
- High school diploma or GED
- Associate's degree or bachelor's degree in art, art history, museum studies, or a related field (preferred by many employers)
Essential Skills:
- Knowledge of art history, art techniques, and materials
- Attention to detail and ability to follow precise procedures
- Proficiency in art handling, installation, and transportation techniques
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Physical stamina for standing, lifting, and moving art pieces
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
- Creativity and problem-solving skills
3. Art Technician Salary Trends: What to Expect in This Career
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for art technicians and museum technicians was $43,800 in 2021. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, education, industry, and geographic location. Generally, art technicians working in larger museums, galleries, or cultural institutions tend to earn higher salaries.
4. Top Books for Aspiring Art Technicians: Resources to Get Started
- "The Museum Environment" by Garry Thomson (Link)
- "Museum Registration Methods" by Rebecca A. Buck and Jean Allman Gilmore (Link)
- "Preventive Conservation for Historic House Museums" by Jane Merritt and Julie A. Reilly (Link)
- "The Manual of Museum Exhibitions" by Barry Lord and Maria Piacente (Link)
5. Essential Syllabus and Topics for Art Technicians: What You Need to Learn
A typical art technician program or curriculum may cover the following topics:
- Art history and art appreciation
- Art materials and techniques
- Art handling and installation methods
- Art conservation and preservation techniques
- Exhibition design and installation
- Art transportation and storage protocols
- Museum registration and collections management
- Safety protocols and risk management
- Project management and teamwork skills
- Communication and documentation procedures
6. How to Become an Art Technician: A Comprehensive Guide
For detailed information on becoming an art technician, you can refer to the following resources:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Multimedia Artists and Animators
- American Alliance of Museums: Professional Development
- ArtJob.org: Art Technician
7. Best Art Technician Programs, Certifications, and Colleges: Where to Study
- Associate's degree programs in art, art history, or museum studies are offered at community colleges, such as Santa Fe Community College (Link) and Northern Virginia Community College (Link).
- Bachelor's degree programs in art history, museum studies, or arts administration are available at institutions like the University of Denver (Link) and the University of Kansas (Link).
- Certifications in art handling, art conservation, or museum studies are offered by organizations like the International Association of Art Handlers (Link) and the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (Link).
8. Applying for Jobs as an Art Technician: Tips and Strategies to Get Hired
- Highlight your art education, any relevant coursework or internships, and your passion for the arts in your resume.
- Obtain certifications or specialized training to demonstrate your expertise in areas like art handling, conservation, or exhibition installation.
- Develop a strong network within the art and museum industry by attending events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn.
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job requirements and emphasize your attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work with art and cultural artifacts.
- Be prepared to undergo background checks and drug screenings, as many art institutions have strict hiring policies.
- Consider starting in entry-level positions or internships to gain practical experience before pursuing more advanced roles.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to pursue a rewarding career as an art technician.