Gallery Owners and Directors

High School

You will need at least a high school diploma in order to become a gallery owner or director. Helpful courses include art, history, business, mathematics, computer science, marketing, and economics. English and speech classes are also important. These courses will teach you to communicate effectively with all types of people, including artists, employees, and customers. Studying a foreign language may also be helpful.

Postsecondary Training

You do not need a college degree to work as a gallery owner or director, but a degree or at least some postsecondary education will certainly give you an advantage over other applicants in this highly competitive field. Many owner and directors have degrees in art, art history, marketing, history, or business management. College courses that will help you prepare for a career as a gallery owner or director include art theory, art administration, art history, accounting, business, marketing, English, advertising, and computer science. All owners and directors, regardless of their education, must have good marketing, analytical, communication, and people skills.