The Curator's Handbook: Museums, Commercial Galleries, Independent Spaces

An updated edition of this essential practical handbook for all those involved in, or studying, the dynamic field of curating

From pitching your ideas and writing loan requests to working with artists, lenders and art handlers, to writing interpretation material, installing and promoting your exhibition; The Curator's Handbook is the most clear and complete guide yet to the art and practice of curating.

An introduction maps the history of curating from its origins in the 17th century to the multifarious roles of the curator today: tastemaker, custodian, interpreter, educator, facilitator, organizer. Adrian George then guides the reader, across thirteen chapters, through the process of curating an exhibition. Each step is described in valuable detail and clear, informative language by this experienced curator, whose text pinpoints the keys to success (as well as which pitfalls to avoid).

With advice and tips from a renowned cast of international museum directors and curators – including Daniel Birnbaum, Aric Chen, Elizabeth Ann MacGregor, Hans Ulrich Obrist, Jennifer Russell and Nicholas Serota – this new edition, updated to reflect current concerns in the art world and the latest recommended best practices, remains the essential handbook for all students, museum and gallery professionals, as well as established or aspiring curators.

Contents List:

Introduction • 1. Starting Off • 2. From Idea to Reality • 3. Pitching • 4. Budgets and Fundraising • 5. Negotiating • 6. Exhibition Publications & Merchandise • 7. Putting a Show Together • 8. The Weeks Before the Opening • 9. Installation • 10. The Days before Opening and the Opening Day • 11. The Press Opening and Private View • 12. During – and after – the exhibition

About the Author:

Adrian George is a curator, commissioner, writer and educator with over twenty-three years’ experience working in some of the most influential art institutions in the world including the New Museum, New York; Tate Modern; Tate Liverpool and the UK Government Art Collection, UK. He is currently Director: Programmes, Exhibitions and Museum Services at ArtScience Museum, Singapore.