Art valuer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• working towards this role
• a graduate training scheme

University

You could complete a degree in a subject, such as art history, fine arts and restoration or fine arts conservation.

After your degree if you could then take professional training in valuation. You could also do a specialist postgraduate course, like art market and appraisal or arts business.

Internships

Some large auction houses offer internship programmes for university students.

You can view information on placements and work experience from the Museums Association.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Work

You could work in an auction house or antiques business as an assistant, porter or cataloguer. This is a great opportunity to learn through experience and part time study.

Volunteering

You might find it useful to get some work experience as getting in to this work can be competitive. Volunteering can also help you to get started in this career.

OtherRoutes

You could join a graduate training scheme with a large auction house. Employers only offer a few of these each year.

You'll usually need a degree in a subject like history of art or fine art, along with relevant art and business experience.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• administration skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of the law like trading, consumer rights and property
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to work well with others
• analytical thinking skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• knowledge of English language
• excellent written communication skills
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Art valuers give advice on how much a piece of art or a collection of art is worth.

As an art valuer, you might:

• assess the condition, quality and age of the art
• check if objects have been restored or changed in any way
• carry out research and speak with specialists and historians
• keep up to date with current prices and demand
• prepare written valuations for clients
• lead auctions and make sure goods are sold for the best price
• act as an expert witness in disputed cases that have gone to court

Location : You could work at a client's home, in an office or at a client's business.
Environment : Your working environment may be dusty and you'll travel often.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £40,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 40 hours irregular

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends as customers demand

Career Path:

You could become a specialist in a particular period or type of art, move from small to large auction houses or work in a high profile gallery.

With experience you could set up your own business, offering a valuation service as well as buying and selling fine arts and antiques.