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Curator

The role of curator is often broken down into a collection curator and an exhibition curator. The collection curator focuses specifically on the collection they are responsible for. The exhibition curator works on a wide range of exhibition subjects.

Tasks include:

• researching, finding and collecting items for exhibitions
• consulting with other staff and deciding on which items to display
• deciding on items to add to the collection
• working with the designer on design and presentation
• preparing books and other information
• organising the repair of damaged items by a conservator
• giving talks on exhibitions and collections
• liaising with art institutes, designers and artists
• training and employing staff
• organising the maintenance and security of exhibitions.

Skills and knowledge

Curators need to have:

• knowledge of display techniques
• good research skills
• knowledge of up-to-date theories and research methods
• the ability to use a collections database
• knowledge of conservation and preservation techniques 
• an understanding of how to seek funding
• communication and public relations skills
• excellent writing skills
• time management skills.

Personal qualities

Curators need to be:

• accurate and methodical, with an eye for detail
• enquiring
• persistent and motivated
• able to accept criticism
• able to visualise exhibits for their design and think creatively
• able to work well in a team.

Curators also need to have a high degree of maturity and integrity because they often deal with personal and valuable items.

Career progression

Curators can move into more senior positions such as museum director, but these positions are often more administrative.