Expert: DJ Murphy - 11/1/2002

Question
Hi! My name is Kaori, and I am interested about going to the art school and have a job as an artist. I would like to ask you some questions about artist as a interview. Is it Ok for you?
Here's Questions to you and about your career:
1. What art company are you working?
2. Job description at the start of your career and how it has changed during your employment?
3. What education, and interests, and experience you had in your job?
4. What entry level person in this field can expect to be paid?
5.How many hours worked in an average week?
6. Amount of math or writing or physical activity neede for your career?
7. Other jobs/Careers you had?
8. The best and worst aspects of your job
9.Company policy regarding lateness and absenteeism.
10. Company policy about appearance
      
               Well, I guess that's it!
                  Thank You!!  

Answer
Hello Kaori.........many questions!

Here are brief answers to them...numerical order.

1. I own an art gallery....it isn't a company but a fine art gallery that produces six exhibitions a year.....so my background might not be relevant to your interests.

2. As director of the gallery....the job entails everything you can imagine relating to running a retail business...including interviewing artists, selecting art work, defining our market, promotion, sales, public relations, etc. etc.

3. Best education for an art career is to combine business with your creative areas of interest.  You will always need an understanding of business, accounting, management, administration etc.

4. Generally the compensation is very low in museums, galleries, etc.  Don't look to get rich in this field for many years.  If money is a prime motivator...seek another field.

5. Most people work an average 40 week...but if you are in management it can go up to 60 hours.

6. Basic understanding of math....not a wizard level.  Physical activity....you need the normal amount of energy.

7. I have been a director of a foundation....ran my own consulting business....but started my career in public relations.

8. Best is the association with creative people.....worst is with finding enough customers to make the program work.  Every job has its ups and downs.  But will tell you that September 11 hurt most retail businesses especially art galleries.

9. Remember to always come early and stay late.  This is a practice to live by!

10. Appearance is important.  One would look foolish on a beach in a business suit....and ridiculous at work in a bathing suit.  Appropriate dress is the key word for the enviornment that you will be working in.

Good luck

dj murphy