Art Curator

Description: Curators are responsible for the collections of galleries, museums, libraries and other cultural institutions. Their work involves researching and acquiring objects for a collection, as well as fundraising and promotion.

Knowledge Required: Art history, chemistry, physics, restoration techniques, museum studies, public relations

Skills: Aesthetic design, business administration, marketing, computers, fundraising

Career Path:  Most museums require a master's degree in an appropriate discipline such as art, history, or natural science, or in museum studies, in addition to practical experience through internships or entry-level museum positions.

Best Cities for this Job: Metropolitan areas such as New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco have the highest employment of Curators.

Median Annual Income:National: $48,450 CA: $58610

Future Growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 20 percent increase of employment for Curatorial positions over the next decade.

From the field: "Part of being a curator has to do with learning… You constantly have to become an expert at new material. So your curiosity is rewarded by amazing insights into the world around you.” -René de Guzman, Senior Curator of Art, Oakland Museum of California