Art Historian: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Art Historian
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Practice Now »What is a Art Historian?
An Art Historian specialises in researching and interpreting artworks, artists, art movements, and art history. This role involves analysing art pieces for their historical significance, cultural context and symbolism, and may involve work in museums, galleries or universities.
Skills
- Strong research and analytical skills
- In-depth knowledge of art history and cultural studies
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to critically analyze and interpret artworks
- Proficiency in conducting archival research and using relevant databases
- Attention to detail and ability to organize and manage large amounts of information
- Strong presentation and public speaking skills
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
- Proficiency in using relevant software and technology for research and data analysis
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders
Qualifications & Education
- A degree or equivalent qualification is the most common entry requirement for social and humanities researchers in the UK
- Other academic qualifications may also be accepted for entry into this career field
- Relevant experience may also be considered as a qualification for some jobs
- Postgraduate qualifications may be required for certain positions within social and humanities research
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest paying art history job in the UK is museum archiving. Museum archivists maintain and organize museum records, administer museum programs, assist during exhibits, and develop policies concerning museum artworks.
There are several job opportunities available for art historians in the UK. Some of these include working as an archivist, conservationist, educator, exhibitions officer in a gallery or museum, gallery curator, heritage manager, historic buildings inspector, and journalist.
To become an art historian in the UK, you typically need a bachelor's degree in art history. However, to advance in your career and hold senior or directorship positions, a master's or doctoral degree is often required.
Art history can lead to various career opportunities in fields such as museums, galleries, collection care, conservation, heritage management, design, fashion, film and television, advertising, architecture, and the art market.
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