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Tina Ziegler

Welcome to Arts Unknown by Tina Ziegler

Expert curatorial and art management courses taught live via Arts Unknown or right here on Udemy through our virtual course.

Thank you for your interest in the The Complete Guide to Art Gallery Management and Exhibition Design; Part 1 - 3. Since 2010, this  course has been taught to over 4000+ students and has built a network of successful curators, gallery managers and artists.

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Welcome to Arts Unknown by Tina Ziegler

Expert curatorial and art management courses taught live via Arts Unknown or right here on Udemy through our virtual course.

Thank you for your interest in the The Complete Guide to Art Gallery Management and Exhibition Design; Part 1 - 3. Since 2010, this  course has been taught to over 4000+ students and has built a network of successful curators, gallery managers and artists.

The course is taught by Tina Ziegler, professional contemporary art curator and art fair director with over 20+ years experience working in the art market. Through informative and detailed voice lectures in a video presentation, Tina introduces the course in three specific modules covering all the key aspects of working in the art market and presented in a easy 'how to' format. 

The course is presented in three parts: 

Part one: Art Gallery Management - This section acts as an introduction to the art market, the responsibilities of a gallery manager and how to manage an art space, work with artists and manage art buyers. A complete overview to working in an gallery environment. 

Part two: Art Exhibition Design and Curating -  This section introduces you to the art curator, the exhibition calendar, an 8 step guide to curating an exhibition and how to market your exhibition to a wider public. 

Part three: Art Handling and Installation - This section focuses specifically on Art Handling and teaches you how to handle, package, ship, hang, install and light works of art in a professional and clear manner. 

Discover more short courses, a community forum and our complete arts platform over at Arts Unknown.

What students say about this course: 

  " Whether you are a student looking to start a career in the commercial art world or a gallery manager looking to hone your skills this course is relevant to all. Tina's wealth of knowledge is invaluable, and coupled with her relaxed delivery style presents gallery management as an exciting but obtainable challenge." - Ruth 

  “ Absolutely fantabulous workshop teaching you everything you need to know about gallery management and business. Highly recommended to everyone involved in gallery/art business or thinking about dealing with art and artists in the future. I personally would recommend this workshop to students of art colleges and schools if they think whether to go into this business or not. Lovely atmosphere, many interesting useful ideas and fantastic students attending this workshop. Don't hesitate to buy this course, you'll get 10 hours of amazing and inspiring workshop. I loved these two days with Tina Ziegler and my class mates. Many thanks, Tina, for your workshop. “ - Irina 

  “This course was exactly what I was looking for in order to understand the world of the small art gallery. Tina made it interesting, informative and enjoyable. I would certainly recommend the course to anyone wishing to gain some knowledge of curating and managing an art gallery.”- June 

  “ Just wanted to say thanks to Tina for this absolutely essential, very informative workshop. Will definitely look for her courses again. Many thanks. “ - Irina 

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What's inside

Syllabus

Part 1: Art Gallery Management - Introduction to the start of this course!

Welcome to the Art Gallery Management and Exhibition design course on Udemy and thank you for joining us for Part 1; Art Gallery Management. This is a three part course. In Part 1 we will focus on Art Gallery Management, Part 2 on Exhibition Design and curating, and Part 3 on Art Handling.

In PART 1 we will focus specifically on Art Gallery Management. You will learn what goes on behind the white walls of a gallery space,the roles and responsibilities of a gallery manager and the foundations to run a successful art gallery space. You will be introduced to auction houses, how to manage artists, price artworks and how to manage art buyers and collectors.

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To start off this course we will look at the various spaces, art galleries and individuals that currently make up the international art market.

A quick look at the various programmes commonly used in an arts space and the management software that is available.

In this lecture we will look at the second most important aspect of an art gallery, The Art Buyers. With out them your gallery will not last long, and it is truly important to understand your buyer, and mange them appropriately.

Welcome to the Art Gallery Management and Exhibition design course on Udemy and thank you for joining us for Part 2; Art Exhibition Design and Curating.

In PART 2 we will focus specifically on Exhibition Design and Curating. You will be introduced to the role of the art curator and how to find a focus as a curator. You will learn the steps to take to organise, manage and curate an art exhibition from start to finish.

Welcome to the Art Gallery Management and Exhibition design course on Udemy and thank you for joining us for Part 3; Art handing and Installation. This is a three part course. In Part 1 we focus on Art Gallery Management, Part 2 on Exhibition Design and curating, and Part 3 on Art Handling and installation.

In PART 3 we will focus specifically on Art Handling and Installation. You will understand the materials required to package and ship artworks and how to package artworks professionally. We will look at a step by step guide to hanging artworks and how to hang multiple paintings in a gallery setting. We will also look at artwork lighting and how to store artworks.

In this lecture we will look at the important things to consider in regards to packaging artworks.

A complete guide to the materials required to pack artworks professionals and a step by step guide to packing works of art.

An introduction to shipping artworks both nationally and internationally.

In this lecture we will discuss artwork installation and the materials & tools require to hang and install works of art.

We will quickly look at art hanging systems for permanent exhibition spaces.

In this lecture we look at a step by step guide to hanging artworks.

In this lecture we will discuss art lighting and the key things to remember when lighting artworks.

A description of various types of art lighting systems

In this lecture we will look at how to store artworks to prevent damage from light and heat.

To finish off we quickly recap what we have discussed in this course.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a comprehensive overview of the art market, covering both primary and secondary markets, which is essential knowledge for anyone entering the field
Explores the practical aspects of art handling, including packing, shipping, installation, and lighting, which are crucial skills for ensuring the safety and presentation of artwork
Details the responsibilities of a gallery manager, including artist management, pricing artworks, and managing art buyers, offering a well-rounded perspective on the role
Presents an 8-step guide to curating an exhibition, from concept development to the opening reception, providing a structured approach to the curatorial process
Requires learners to take the course in three parts, which may be inconvenient for some learners who are only interested in specific topics such as art handling
Taught by a professional contemporary art curator and art fair director with over 20 years of experience, which lends credibility and practical insights to the course material

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive overview of art business essentials

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive overview of the art business, covering gallery management, exhibition curating, and practical art handling. Many appreciate the instructor's expertise and relaxed delivery style, finding the content practical and essential for starting a career or understanding the field. The section on art handling is often highlighted as particularly useful. However, some learners note that the course provides a basic, high-level introduction which may lack depth for experienced professionals, suggesting it is perhaps better suited for beginners or those seeking a broad foundation. Overall, the course is considered largely positive.
Art handling module was particularly helpful.
"Especially the art handling part."
"The art handling part was particularly useful."
"The art handling section was a highlight."
Learn practical tips and essential skills.
"Packed with practical tips and essential information for running a gallery or curating."
"Shares so much practical knowledge."
"Good introduction to the field."
"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."
Provides a broad overview of the art business.
"Absolutely fantabulous workshop teaching you everything you need to know about gallery management and business."
"Covered all the main areas as promised."
"The content covered a lot of ground..."
"Solid overview of the art market and gallery operations."
Benefit from Tina Ziegler's extensive experience.
"Tina's wealth of knowledge is invaluable, and coupled with her relaxed delivery style..."
"Tina's experience shines through."
"Tina is clearly an expert and shares so much practical knowledge."
"Tina provides invaluable insights from her extensive career."
"I loved these two days with Tina Ziegler..."
Engaging style but some video quality concerns.
"Relaxed delivery style..."
"Tina's delivery is excellent."
"Sometimes the video quality could be better..."
"Video format with voiceover isn't the most engaging."
Content may be basic for experienced pros.
"Good overview for beginners, but perhaps not enough depth for experienced professionals."
"The information is very basic and mostly covers high-level concepts."
"Felt more like an introductory lecture series than a practical guide."
"The course content lacks depth."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Art Gallery, Exhibition Curating and Artist Management with these activities:
Review Art History Fundamentals
Solidify your understanding of art history to better contextualize the art market and curatorial decisions.
Browse courses on Art History
Show steps
  • Review key art historical periods and movements.
  • Identify major artists and their contributions.
  • Familiarize yourself with art historical terminology.
Read 'Seven Days in the Art World' by Sarah Thornton
Gain insights into the contemporary art world's inner workings to better understand the context of gallery management and curating.
Show steps
  • Read the book, taking notes on key observations.
  • Reflect on how the book's insights relate to the course material.
Develop an Exhibition Proposal
Practice the skills learned in the course by creating a detailed exhibition proposal for a hypothetical show.
Show steps
  • Choose a theme or concept for your exhibition.
  • Select artists whose work aligns with your concept.
  • Write a curatorial statement outlining your vision.
  • Create a budget for the exhibition.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Attend Local Art Gallery Openings
Build connections and observe exhibition design firsthand by attending local art gallery openings.
Show steps
  • Research local art galleries and their upcoming events.
  • Attend openings, engaging with artists and gallery staff.
  • Take notes on exhibition design and curatorial choices.
Read 'The $12 Million Stuffed Shark' by Don Thompson
Understand the economic forces at play in the art market to make informed decisions about pricing and artist management.
Show steps
  • Read the book, focusing on the economic principles discussed.
  • Consider how these principles apply to gallery management.
Create a Mock Art Gallery Business Plan
Apply the knowledge gained in the course by developing a comprehensive business plan for a hypothetical art gallery.
Show steps
  • Define the gallery's mission, vision, and target audience.
  • Develop a marketing strategy to attract artists and buyers.
  • Create a financial plan, including projected revenue and expenses.
  • Outline the gallery's operational procedures.
Design a Virtual Art Exhibition
Showcase your curatorial skills by designing a virtual art exhibition using online platforms or software.
Show steps
  • Select a platform for creating your virtual exhibition.
  • Choose artworks to include in your exhibition.
  • Design the layout and flow of the virtual space.
  • Write descriptions and labels for each artwork.

Career center

Learners who complete Art Gallery, Exhibition Curating and Artist Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Art gallery director
An Art Gallery Director manages all aspects of an art gallery, from selecting artists to managing staff and overseeing exhibitions. This role requires a keen understanding of the art market, excellent communication skills, and the ability to curate compelling exhibitions. This course helps build a strong foundation in gallery management, exhibition design, and art handling, providing the knowledge needed to effectively run a gallery. The detailed modules on gallery management, artist relations, and exhibition planning are especially relevant for anyone aspiring to be an Art Gallery Director.
Gallery Assistant
A Gallery Assistant provides administrative and operational support to art galleries, assisting with tasks such as reception, sales, event coordination, and art handling. This role is often an entry point into the art world and requires strong organizational and communication skills. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the workings of a gallery, including the roles and responsibilities of a gallery manager, artist management, and art handling. By completing this course, prospective Gallery Assistants can demonstrate their knowledge and preparedness to work in a gallery environment.
Curatorial Assistant
A Curatorial Assistant provides support to curators in researching, organizing, and documenting art collections and exhibitions. This course offers a practical introduction to the curatorial process, covering topics such as exhibition planning, artist selection, and curatorial statement writing. A Curatorial Assistant could learn the skills needed to be successful in this role.
Artist Liaison
An Artist Liaison serves as the primary point of contact between artists and galleries or other art organizations, facilitating communication, managing relationships, and coordinating exhibitions and events. This role demands excellent interpersonal skills, a deep appreciation for art, and the ability to advocate for artists' needs. This course provides valuable insights into artist management, including how to approach and manage artists, artist gallery agreements, and pricing artworks. Aspiring Artist Liaisons can benefit greatly from the course.
Arts Administrator
Arts Administrator manages the operational and financial aspects of arts organizations, including fundraising, marketing, and program development, requiring strong organizational and leadership skills. This course provides a solid foundation in gallery management, exhibition design, and artist relations, which are all essential components of arts administration. An Arts Administrator could learn the skills needed to be successful in this role.
Art Handler
An Art Handler specializes in the safe and secure handling, packing, transportation, and installation of artwork, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of preservation techniques. This course includes a dedicated section on art handling and installation, covering topics such as packing and shipping artworks, artwork installation techniques, art lighting, and art storage. This practical knowledge is essential for anyone working as an Art Handler, ensuring they can protect valuable artworks during every stage of the process.
Exhibition Coordinator
An Exhibition Coordinator manages the logistical and administrative aspects of art exhibitions, working closely with curators, artists, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth execution. This role requires strong project management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously. This course introduces the exhibition calendar, the various types of art exhibitions, information on exhibition budgeting, and the steps required to curate a successful exhibition. Learners could discover skills needed to be an Exhibition Coordinator.
Art Curator
An Art Curator researches, acquires, and organizes art collections for museums, galleries, or private collections, developing exhibition concepts and writing accompanying materials. This role demands a deep knowledge of art history, excellent research skills, and a passion for sharing art with the public. This course provides a practical overview of the curatorial process, from developing a concept to marketing an exhibition and curating the exhibition space. The course could be useful to those in the role of an Art Curator.
Art Consultant
An Art Consultant advises individuals and organizations on art acquisitions, collection management, and investment strategies, requiring a solid understanding of the art market and the ability to assess the value and potential of artworks. This course provides valuable insights into the art market and the dynamics between artists, galleries, and buyers. The modules on pricing artworks and managing art buyers are particularly beneficial for anyone looking to become an Art Consultant, as they provide a practical understanding of the financial aspects of the art world. The course may be especially helpful to those in this Art Consultant role.
Exhibition Designer
An Exhibition Designer is responsible for the visual layout and design of art exhibitions, creating an engaging and impactful experience for visitors. This requires creativity, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of spatial dynamics. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to exhibition design, covering topics such as curatorial statement writing, space curation, and final preparations for exhibitions. The section on art handling and installation may also be helpful, as it teaches the practical skills needed to bring an exhibition to life. The course may be useful to those in the Exhibition Designer role.
Art Registrar
An Art Registrar is responsible for maintaining detailed records of artworks in a collection, including provenance, condition, location, and insurance information, requiring meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills. While this course does not directly cover all aspects of art registration, the modules on art handling, shipping, and insurance provide a foundational understanding of the logistical considerations involved in managing an art collection. Therefore, this course may be useful to those in the role of Art Registrar.
Art Appraiser
An Art Appraiser assesses the monetary value of artworks for insurance, estate planning, or sales purposes, requiring extensive knowledge of art history, market trends, and appraisal methodologies. While this course does not delve into the specifics of art appraisal techniques, the sections on the art market and pricing artworks may be helpful by providing context that is useful for those in the Art Appraiser role. Having a broader understanding of the commercial aspects of art can inform the appraisal process. The course may be useful to those in the role of Art Appraiser.
Museum Educator
A Museum Educator develops and delivers educational programs and resources related to museum collections and exhibitions for diverse audiences. While this course focuses more on the commercial gallery setting, the principles of exhibition design, curatorial practice, and art handling transfer well to the museum environment. It may be useful to learn these from the course. The course could be useful to those in the role of Museum Educator.
Art Educator
An Art Educator teaches art history, techniques, and appreciation in schools, museums, or community centers, inspiring creativity and fostering an understanding of art among students of all ages. This course provides a valuable overview of the art world, including gallery management, exhibition design, and art handling, which can enrich an Art Educator's curriculum and provide students with a broader understanding of the art ecosystem. The course may be useful to those in the role of Art Educator.
Art Writer
An Art Writer creates content about art for publications, websites, or other media, requiring a deep understanding of art history, culture, and criticism, as well as excellent writing skills. This course provides insights into the art market, exhibition design, and curatorial practices, which can inform and enrich an Art Writer's perspective. The course touches on creating an environment for your exhibition and exhibition information. The course may be useful to those in the role of Art Writer.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Art Gallery, Exhibition Curating and Artist Management.
Offers an insightful look into the contemporary art world, covering auctions, studio visits, art fairs, and biennials. It provides valuable context for understanding the dynamics of the art market and the roles of various players, including artists, dealers, collectors, and curators. Reading this book will enhance your understanding of the practical aspects of art gallery management and exhibition design. It is valuable as additional reading to supplement the course.
Explores the economics of the contemporary art market, providing insights into pricing, branding, and the role of collectors and critics. It offers a critical perspective on the factors that drive value in the art world. Reading this book will help you understand the financial aspects of art gallery management and the dynamics of the art market. It is valuable as additional reading to supplement the course.

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