Arts administrators manage projects and activities in the creative sector.
What does an arts administrator do?
Arts administrators cover a range of functions to ensure the smooth running of projects for organisations such as community arts groups, theatre companies, art galleries, museums, and the public sector. The type of work can involve marketing, administration, gaining sponsorship and funding, and managing performers.
You could be involved in:
- arranging arts and dance projects and events
- securing venues, arranging performances, catering, and security
- organising publications to promote events and activities
- marketing, managing social media, websites, and advertising
- planning and managing budgets
- developing new projects and partnerships
- ensuring legal compliance
- writing management reports
What do I need to do to become an arts administrator?
You don’t always need a degree to be employed in arts administrator, but a passion for the arts – along with relevant work experience in an administrative or business support role – is a definite advantage. Qualifications in arts, events management, or business studies are helpful, such as:
- arts-related courses
- art history
- arts management
- English literature
- event management
- visual arts and design
- performing arts
Related skills
- Administration
- Business management
- Communication
- Customer service
- Financial planning
- Interpersonal skills
- Leadership
- Organisation
- People management
- Problem solving
- Teamwork
- Time management
Academic route
- Degree, diploma, and/or certificate in arts administration, art history, a business-related qualification, English and literary studies, performing or visual arts, or design
Vocational route
Community arts apprenticeship (levels 2 and 3)
Cultural and heritage venue operations apprenticeship (levels 2 and 3)
Live events and promotion apprenticeship (levels 2 and 3)
Music business apprenticeship (levels 2 and 3)
Sound recording, engineering, and studio facilities apprenticeship (levels 2 and 3)
Technical theatre apprenticeship (levels 2 and 3)
Advertising and marketing communications apprenticeship (levels 4 and 5)
Related subjects
- Art
- Business studies
- Drama, music, and performing arts
- English
- History
- Media studies
Where could I be working?
Arts administrator jobs are increasingly advertised through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, and are usually with organisations such as:
- concert venues
- arts festivals
- theatres (including touring companies)
- museums
- galleries
- media centres
- public sector bodies, such as arts councils and local authorities
Related jobs
Museum curators look after and manage exhibitions.
Art gallery curators manage collections of paintings and objects.
Theatrical producers are creative decision-makers who manage all aspects of putting on a production.
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