What does an art consultant do? – Job duties and work environment
An art consultant works with mediating, evaluating, and proposing artworks for various environments such as public buildings, companies, institutions, and private collections. The role involves analyzing client needs, developing art plans, making purchases or commissions, and coordinating installations and exhibitions. Contact with artists, galleries, property owners, and architects is common, as is advising on artistic design and managing existing art collections. The work environment varies between office work, site visits, project meetings, and sometimes travel to inspect or install artworks.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, Art Consultant salary has shown stable and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 36,700 SEK per month, which increased to 37 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 38 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 6% over the period. This development reflects an increased focus on artistic quality in both public and private sectors, as well as a growing demand for qualified advice on art related to new construction and urban development. Salary increases can also be explained by higher formal requirements and increased competition for qualified consultants, especially in larger cities where art projects are more common and budgets higher.
Many art consultants work project-based and therefore have the opportunity to specialize in different art areas, such as public art, corporate collections, or digital art projects. This contributes to a dynamic daily work life with varied tasks and opportunities for continuous skill development.
Art Consultant salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 26,600 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-university education)
- Highest salary: 47,000 SEK/month (male, government sector, doctoral degree)
- Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK
- Women earn: 38 300 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 40 100 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Salary variations may occur, especially between large cities and smaller towns
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming an art consultant usually involves higher education in art history, cultural studies, museology, or similar fields. Many employers also require experience in project management, art mediation, or work within the cultural sector. Practical experience and networking within the art world are highly valued, and further education in public art or art law can be advantageous.
- Bachelor's degree in art history, cultural studies, or similar (3 years)
- Master's degree recommended for more qualified assignments (1-2 years)
- Courses in public art, project management, or art law are meritorious
- Internship at museums, galleries, or public institutions provides valuable experience
- Prerequisites often include university eligibility and interest in art and culture
Common benefits and compensations
Art consultants often enjoy benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Larger employers or government institutions may also offer occupational pensions, professional development, and special project bonuses. Travel related to art assignments is usually reimbursed separately.
Competition and challenges
The competition within the profession of art consultancy is relatively high, especially in metropolitan regions where most major art commissions and public art projects are located. Challenges include establishing oneself in the market, building a network of contacts within the art community, and staying updated on current trends and regulations. Since many assignments are project-based, flexibility and the ability to manage varying workloads are essential. Among the broader group of museum curators and others, there are about 620 available jobs, but it is important to note that art consultants constitute a smaller part of this group. Limited data makes future prospects for art consultants uncertain.
Tips for aspiring art consultants
To succeed as an art consultant, it is beneficial to combine strong analytical skills with creative thinking and a genuine interest in art. Building a broad network in the art world is crucial, so engagement and social skills are recommended early in your career. Good communication skills facilitate work with clients and partners, and project management skills help with larger assignments. Being self-driven and proactive is important, as many assignments are freelance and require independent planning. Finally, continuous education and staying up-to-date with new trends in art and culture increase competitiveness in the job market.
Key facts about Art Consultant
- Education level: Often bachelor's or master's in art history
- Work environment: Project-based, varies between office and site visits
- Work form: Consultant, employed, or self-employed
- Demand: Part of a broader group with about 620 available jobs
- Special skills: Public art, project management, art law
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as an art consultant, several career paths can open, such as leading larger art projects, working as an art coordinator at government institutions, or specializing in public art design. Experience can also lead to consultancy roles in larger infrastructure projects or international collaborations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the group of museum curators and others, there is some demand for skills, but no separate assessment is made for art consultants due to limited data. The market is influenced by public investments, cultural policy initiatives, and the construction boom, making future prospects somewhat uncertain but with ongoing demand for qualified consultants in art and culture.
Frequently asked questions about Art Consultant
- What does an Art Consultant earn?
- The average salary is 38 900 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
- What education is required to become an Art Consultant?
- Usually, a bachelor's degree in art history or similar is required, preferably supplemented with further training and practical experience.
- Are there gender pay differences?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do within the profession.
- What does the job market look like?
- Within the group of museum curators and others, there are approximately 620 available jobs, but demand for art consultants varies regionally.
- What are the tasks of an Art Consultant?
- The profession involves art mediation, advising, project management, and coordination of art projects.
- What are the career prospects?
- After a few years, one can take on larger project responsibilities, become a coordinator, or specialize in various art fields.
