Art Administration is a discipline that combines a wide ranging knowledge of the visual arts in relation to management, marketing and finance as well as exhibition and curatorial practices, writing and documentation, and legal and theoretical studies. The discipline aims to equip graduates for leadership positions within the arts.

Core Art Administration sub-disciplines are:

Arts Management
Arts Management examines the management and administrative skills and knowledge required from individuals to take up positions as directors and managers of arts and related organisations. It covers aspects of management and organisational structures in existing institutions both large and small, public and commercial. It includes the establishment of new organisations and the planning and development of systems designed to ensure the delivery of services and the long term survival of arts organisations and institutions, their human and material resources and the ideas and ideals which drive them.

Arts Writing
Arts Writing is concerned with the kinds of writing that those working in art institutions most commonly undertake: writing from the perspective of the institution. It recognises that writing may have many different functions and writers must learn to adapt their style, vocabulary and technique, according to who will read the product. Issues addressed include the current debate on captions, writing for children and non-specialist publics, research techniques including oral history, press kits and media management, and different types of catalogues.

Art and Law
Art and Law is concerned with the ethical and legal implications of the interactions generated between artists, exhibiting spaces and the viewing/purchasing public in contemporary society. It is concerned with the development of a broader critical perspective on the cultural, legal, and moral contexts of gallery and museum management. Issues addressed include contracts, copyright, acquisitions and disposal of works, moral rights and censorship, conflict of interest, and the responsibilities of trustees and directors.

Curatorial Practices and Exhibition Management
Curatorial Practices and Exhibition Management is concerned with the theoretical and practical aspects of exhibition management. It develops a knowledge of curatorial procedures with particular reference to the initiation, presentation, interpretation and planning of art works in exhibition settings. Specific attention is paid to the administrative skills necessary to mount exhibitions, the production of visual and written documentation and the methods of critical engagement with images and objects. Visits to exhibitions as well as participation in the planning and implementation of an exhibition are essential components.

Studying Art Administration at UNSW
Please refer to the table below for a complete list of programs available.