Arts agent/promoter
An arts agent operates and fronts the marketing and selling of an artist to enhance their career.
Arts agents/promoters work to create and maintain contacts, for example gaining media coverage and exhibitions in galleries, to promote an artist and their work. Arts agents have strong interpersonal skills: they establish close working relationships with their artists to understand their needs and must negotiate with other agents, gallery managers and media representatives.
Work activities
- Dealing with queries regarding clients.
- Negotiating contracts with agents and gallery managers.
- Contacting and meeting with journal, newspaper and gallery representatives to gain publicity.
- General administration tasks.
Work conditions
Travel: may be necessary to attend meetings and exhibitions.
Working hours: can be irregular with the possibility of working weekends.
Location: usually in large cities.
Entry requirements
An art-related degree may be useful. Qualifications in business management are recommended. Networking to establish a range of reputable contacts is key to a successful arts agency.
