How To Get A Job In An Art Gallery

November 28 2025 - Getting a job in an art gallery in the UK can be an exciting first step into the art world. Galleries come in many sizes, from small independent spaces to large national institutions, and each one needs a range of people to help it run smoothly.

Working in a gallery allows you to be close to art every day, meet creative professionals, and build a long-term career in a growing cultural sector.

In recent surveys of the UK’s creative industries, it is estimated that the wider arts sector contributes more than a third of all creative employment, showing how important and active this field is.

Types of Jobs in Art Galleries

With reference to David Aaron, a thriving art gallery in Mayfair, London, art galleries employ a mixture of creative and administrative staff. Front-of-house roles include gallery assistants who welcome visitors, answer questions, and monitor exhibition spaces.

Many UK galleries report that visitor services accounts for roughly half of their day-to-day staffing needs, which shows how central these roles are to the experience of the public.

Behind the scenes, curators research artists, plan exhibitions, and look after the gallery’s collection.

There are also roles in education, where staff run workshops and tours for schools and community groups.

Larger galleries employ technicians who install artworks, as well as marketing and communications teams who promote shows and events. Some galleries also hire sales staff who work directly with collectors to sell artworks.

Pre-Requisites and Skills

Different jobs require different levels of training, but there are some general skills that help across the sector.

Good communication is important because most roles involve working with visitors, artists, or colleagues.

Many people entering the art world study subjects such as art history, fine art, or cultural studies, but these are not strict requirements for all roles.

Front-of-house jobs often value customer service experience just as highly as formal education. Curatorial or education roles usually need a degree or postgraduate study, along with strong research skills.

Technical roles benefit from practical training in handling artworks, using tools, and understanding how to install exhibitions safely.

Prior Experience is Useful in the Art World

Experience can make a big difference when applying for gallery jobs. Volunteering or completing short internships in a gallery, museum, or art fair is a common way to build confidence and learn how these spaces operate.

Many smaller galleries welcome volunteers who assist with openings or catalogue management.

Even part-time work in retail or hospitality can be useful because it helps develop the customer-focused skills that galleries look for.

For more specialist roles, such as curating or education, employers often expect some previous involvement in research projects, writing, or working with public groups.

Opportunities for Growth Working in an Art Gallery

There are many ways to grow a career once you have entered the gallery world. Gallery assistants can progress into senior visitor roles or move into administrative work. Junior curators can develop into lead curators or programme managers.

Those working in education may advance to coordinating large community projects. Some people eventually move into museum work, commercial art sales, or even start their own gallery.

Because the art world is connected through events, exhibitions, and networks, every role offers chances to meet people who can help you move forward.

With time, experience, and a strong interest in the arts, it is possible to build a long and rewarding career in the UK gallery sector.

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