Networking Tips for Aspiring Curators: Building and Maintaining Professional Relationships in the Art World

Networking is one of the most critical skills for curators looking to make their mark in the art world. Beyond simply making connections, effective networking allows curators to foster meaningful collaborations, access funding opportunities, and stay informed about emerging trends. Whether through attending art events, joining professional organizations, or engaging on social media, developing a strong professional network is essential. Here are some practical strategies and examples to help you build and maintain a robust curatorial network.

Attend Art Events: Where In-Person Connections Are Made

Attending art events such as gallery openings, biennials, and symposiums can significantly expand your network. These spaces offer opportunities to meet artists, fellow curators, and art professionals, enabling you to build meaningful relationships. To maximize your chances, seek out local and international events that align with your curatorial interests.

Here are some websites that can help you find relevant art events worldwide:

• ArtRabbit – A global platform listing contemporary art exhibitions and events across major cities. It also allows users to create profiles and follow events.
• GalleriesNow – A comprehensive guide to contemporary art exhibitions in leading galleries worldwide, making it a go-to resource for discovering the latest events.
• New Exhibitions – Provides up-to-date information on exhibitions and events in major art institutions globally, including museums, galleries, and biennials.

Join Professional Organizations to Strengthen Your Curatorial Network

Joining professional organizations is essential for curators seeking to grow within the industry. These groups often provide educational resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs. Engaging with these organizations can help you stay connected with fellow curators, learn new skills, and collaborate on projects. It’s also important to find organizations that are relevant to your country or region, as they often provide localized support and resources.

Below are some key professional organizations to explore:

• International Council of Museums (ICOM) – A global organization that provides a network for museum professionals, including curators, with a focus on protecting cultural heritage and fostering professional growth.
• CIMAM – International Committee for Museums and Collections of Modern Art – An international organization that brings together professionals working in modern and contemporary art institutions, offering conferences and a global curatorial network.
• IKT – International Association of Curators of Contemporary Art – A worldwide network of curators working with contemporary art, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration through conferences and other events.
• Austrian Association of Curators – A regional organization for curators in Austria that offers resources, events, and opportunities for professional development.
• American Alliance of Museums (AAM) – A leading organization for museum professionals in the U.S. offering networking opportunities, events, and career resources.
• Indie Museum Pros – A community-driven organization for emerging museum professionals, offering an inclusive platform for peer learning and networking.
• Museums Association – A U.K.-based organization that supports curators through networking events, professional development, and advocacy for the museum sector.

Leverage Social Media: Expand Your Digital Footprint

Social media has become a powerful networking tool for curators, providing a platform to showcase curatorial projects and connect with the broader art world. By leveraging platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter, you can expand your network, engage in conversations about art trends, and build your professional reputation.

Here are some social media platforms and tools useful for curators:

• Instagram – Instagram is ideal for sharing your curatorial projects and following emerging artists. This article from Sotheby’s Curating an Instagram Account for the Art World provides valuable tips and strategies for art professionals on how to effectively use Instagram to build a compelling presence, engage with audiences, and enhance their visibility within the art community.
• LinkedIn – While LinkedIn might not be the most obvious choice for curators and artists, more are joining the platform. Why? LinkedIn allows curators to stay up to date with museums and organizations they follow, connect with fellow curators, and participate in heated and interesting discussions. It’s also a great space for sharing resources and toolkits, offering professional advice, and finding job opportunities in the art world.
• Substack – A platform for publishing newsletters, where curators can share their thoughts, reviews, and curatorial insights with a wider audience through email subscriptions. For example, curators like Anne Parke and Bronwyn have used Substack to connect with readers and share their perspectives on contemporary art and art market. 
• Discord – Originally a gaming platform, Discord has grown into a dynamic space for communities, including niche art and curatorial groups. It’s perfect for hosting real-time discussions, sharing resources, and engaging in conversations about curatorial practices. For example, the ArtClub server fosters a community of artists and art aficionados, while the Art Blocks server is dedicated to conversations around generative art.

Conduct Studio Visits: Deepen Relationships with Artists

Studio visits are an essential part of a curator’s networking toolkit, offering an intimate look at an artist’s creative process. These visits are not just about viewing finished works—they provide an opportunity to engage in thoughtful dialogue, understand an artist’s motivations, and witness their practice in its raw form. For curators, building relationships through studio visits can lead to future exhibitions, collaborations, or commissions.

To make the most of studio visits:

• Schedule Thoughtful, Focused Visits – Reach out to artists whose work genuinely resonates with your curatorial interests. A well-researched visit demonstrates your commitment to understanding their practice, laying the foundation for meaningful future collaboration.
• Ask Open-Ended Questions – Studio visits are a chance to engage in conversation. Asking questions about the artist’s process, their conceptual frameworks, and the challenges they face can foster deeper understanding and trust.
• Follow Up – After a studio visit, a personalized follow-up note or email can help solidify the connection. Express appreciation for the time spent and continue the conversation by sharing any further thoughts on their work or potential collaboration ideas.

Resources

• Mastering the Art of Networking: 7 Networking Tips for Artists & Creatives – Practical advice for building strong relationships in creative fields.
• Art Industry Networking Tips for Building Connections – Focuses on strategies to strengthen your presence and connections within the art community.
• American Alliance of Museums: Build Your Network – A go-to resource for curators seeking to expand their professional network.
• Networking for Artists: How to Build an Art World Network – Insightful tips on how artists and curators can foster lasting connections in the art world.
• Grow a Powerful Arts and Culture Network with These 10 Steps – A strategic guide for building a robust network in arts and culture.

Summary

Networking is an essential skill for curators, providing opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth. Attending events, joining professional organizations, leveraging social media and meeting artists are some of the most effective ways to build and maintain your network. By being intentional about cultivating these relationships, aspiring curators can not only strengthen their professional profiles but also contribute to a more interconnected and vibrant art community.

Photoby ian dooley via Unsplash