Expert: DJ Murphy - 1/18/2007

Question
Hi I just graduated from art school with a BFA and I really want a career in the arts. I live in NYC and I would love to be come an art consultant but i am having a really hard time getting my foot in the door,  I am smart and have been told I could do well in this industry, but I cant even get hired as a gallery sitter. what can I do to better improve my options?

Answer
Hello Joanna,

Assuming you have done all the basics [checked the NYTimes classifieds, Village Voice ads, etc. Art Calendar Mag. Art Business Mag...... went on line to Monster.com; registered with temp. agencies, etc.].....my suggestion is that you put together a crisp one page background resume with job objectives, etc., and carry many of them with you in number 10 envelopes......give them out to people you meet that might have leads on the type of jobs you are looking to find.  Also...drop into the major [and minor] museums, art auction houses, and drop off your resume [in a nice envelope addressed to "Director, Human Resourse Department"  You'll need to get agressive in a nice way!

Have you checked with your art school...where you receieved your BFA to see if they provide job leads?

Barring any and all of the above.....get a job in the financial industry....as a temporary career....and keep working toward your goals.

Best of luck,

dj murphy