What does a Curator do? – Job responsibilities and working environment
A Curator works with planning, developing, and managing exhibitions at museums, art galleries, or other cultural institutions. Responsibilities include selecting objects and artworks, writing texts and catalogs, and managing communication about the exhibitions with audiences and the media. Curators often collaborate with artists, researchers, and other specialists to ensure high-quality and relevant exhibitions for different audiences. The work is largely in a creative and intellectual environment but can also involve administrative tasks and project management.
Salary development over time
Curator salaries have shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,700 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 37 600 SEK, representing about a 2.5% increase. The positive trend has continued, and in 2024, the average salary is 38 900 SEK, a further increase of approximately 3.5% from the previous year. This development reflects an increased demand for curators' expertise and a higher valuation of the profession within the cultural sector. Salaries are also influenced by education level, experience, and sector, with the highest salaries found in the public sector and among those with research qualifications.
Curator salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,600 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 47,000 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK
- Gender differences: Men 40 100 SEK, women 38 300 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Data on regional variation is unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as a Curator, a higher academic education in art history, museology, or a related humanities field is usually required. Many employers also seek experience in exhibition work, project management, and sometimes research qualifications, especially in the public sector. Internships and networking are often crucial for establishing a career in the field.
- Formal degree: Bachelor's (3 years) or master's (5 years) in art history, museology, or similar
- Certifications/courses: Courses in exhibition production, project management, and museum education can be advantageous
- Internship/trainee: Internships at museums or galleries are common and recommended
- Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish and English, and often research experience
- Tips for success: Engagement in the cultural sector and active participation in networks and projects during studies increase chances
Many curators combine their work with research, teaching, or artistic projects. The interdisciplinary role often involves collaborations across institutions and international contacts, which can open exciting career opportunities both nationally and globally.
Common benefits and compensations
Curators are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, professional development, research travel opportunities, and flexible working hours. In the public sector, pension schemes, longer vacations, and sometimes additional allowances for project responsibilities or supervising students are also common.
Competition and challenges
The competition for curator positions is generally high, especially at larger museums and art institutions where the number of applicants is often large. One challenge is that many positions require both specialized academic expertise and practical experience, making it difficult for recent graduates to enter the job market. Budget constraints within the cultural sector also affect job security and the possibility of permanent employment. The ability to combine artistic sensibility with organizational skills and good communication is crucial for success in the profession.
Tips for aspiring Curators
To succeed as a Curator, it is good to be curious, persistent, and have strong collaboration skills. Gaining practical experience early through internships or volunteer work in the museum sector provides valuable insights and networks. Analytical thinking helps develop engaging exhibitions and understand audience needs, while good organizational skills facilitate project management and planning of complex exhibitions. Being communicative is important both for teamwork and reaching visitors and partners. Finally, a broad network and genuine interest in contemporary art and culture support career development in the field.
Key facts about Curator
- Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in art history/museology
- Work environment: Cultural institutions, often project-based and interdisciplinary
- Typical employment: Permanent or project-based employment
- Demand: 620 job openings in the profession Museiintendent m.fl.
- Special skills: Project management, art history, exhibition production
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a Curator, it is common to move into more specialized roles, such as Chief Curator, Program Manager, or Project Leader for major exhibitions. Many also become responsible for collection management or develop collaborations with international institutions. Some choose to work as freelance curators or art consultants. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast exists for the Curator profession, but within the group Museiintendent m.fl., there are currently 620 job openings, indicating some demand. Future prospects depend on public and private investments in the cultural sector and access to project funding, and competition for attractive positions is expected to remain high.
Frequently asked questions about Curator
- What is the average salary of a Curator?
- A Curator has an average salary of 38 900 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become a Curator?
- Typically, a bachelor's degree or higher in art history, museology, or related field is required.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn an average of 40 100 SEK and women 38 300 SEK per month.
- What does the job market look like for Curators?
- There are 620 job openings, but competition is high.
- What are the most common workplaces for Curators?
- Usually at museums, art galleries, or other cultural institutions.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for a Curator?
- The highest known salary is 47,000 SEK and the lowest is 26,600 SEK per month.
