New York Transit Museum’s Post

Exploring Stress Levels in Museum Jobs: Balancing Passion with Pressure 🏛️ Working in a museum might seem like a dream job for those passionate about art, history, and culture. But behind the scenes, museum professionals often face unique stressors that many may not realize. From curators and conservators to educators and administrators, the demand for perfection, tight deadlines, and the pressure of preserving priceless artifacts can add up. Key Stress Factors: High Responsibility: Managing and preserving irreplaceable collections. Deadlines: Planning and executing exhibitions under time constraints. Public Interaction: Balancing visitor expectations with educational goals. Budget Limitations: Operating with limited resources while striving for excellence. Job Security: Funding cuts and economic shifts can impact employment stability. But despite the challenges, the rewards of working in a museum are immense. The opportunity to connect people with history and culture, to inspire curiosity, and to contribute to the preservation of our collective heritage makes it all worthwhile. For anyone considering a career in museums, it’s essential to recognize both the pressures and the passions that come with the job. And for those already in the field, remember that your work is invaluable—take care of your mental health as you continue to preserve the past for future generations. #MuseumJobs #StressManagement #CulturalHeritage #MuseumLife #CareerInMuseums #eminspost #azhistorymuseum

🗣️STORY TIME 🗣️ When I first asked how to stand out as an applicant in 2022, I was encouraged to get a masters in museum studies. It’s a common sugestion when someone gives advice and I get it because logically it makes sense… right? 🤔 So that was plan for while… to save up and go for a masters. But it became impossible in entry level positions because it is extremely difficult in this economy to afford both school and living expenses. So I figured I would just double down and maybe try just being exposed to as much as I could in a year at a museum. When working as a Visitor Service Associate (entry level customer service position) I worked alongside colleagues who went to Yale, Boston University, or had years of experience in museums… all with advanced degrees. I watched as passionate people made opportunities for themselves, compromise on initial goals by being open, and even sometimes explore new careers. I also watched people openly describe the struggle that can come with selecting jobs in this pay bracket, the pain of endless interviews with dead ends, and feeling like there dreams were on hold. This experience really changed me. After all the reviewing of programs and considering all my options, getting a masters would bring me closer to a job but starting salaries for most positions are like Alli says, 30k to 50k a year. How would I be able to pay off a degree program like that if that was my salary? It made me wonder if it was even worth it. In one of my last interviews this past spring, I shared why I would apply to a smaller museum when I work for a globally recognized institution. It was simple really, I wanted an opportunity in exchange for real experience because I couldn’t afford a masters. This experience could mean real movement in my career and if I was lucky at the end of my contract I could gain employment in something that would allow me to attend school because I could then… finally… afford the risk. Museums are full of passionate people that want to grow and want to succeed. More and more people want to be a part of this industry and it’s inspiring. Recently with the news that art history majors face the HIGHEST unemployment rate it is often confusing to me why there are so many masters programs popping up for museum studies…. and why it’s a requirement to have a masters on applications even though the salary does not support those who are carrying high level debt from their schooling. I’m seeing hope all the time despite this. I look around and see amazing people mid career going back to get advanced degrees. I witness strong people with out degrees in our field bringing in outside knowledge which create new solutions. I share in my friends describing how they set boundaries and won’t settle for in equitable pay even if it’s a major museum. These experiences generate conversations about what we want the future of museums to be and I love it. A change is coming to this! I can feel it. Thanks Alli.❤️

Why You Should (or Shouldn’t) Consider a Job in the Museum World Thinking about a museum career? Here's a quick look at the pros and cons. Pros 1. **Access to Unique Collections**: Work with incredible artifacts and art daily. 2. **Continuous Learning**: Always expanding your knowledge without student loans. 3. **Job Satisfaction**: Contribute to preserving history and educating the public. 4. **Professional Networking**: Connect with passionate experts and build a supportive community. 5. **Creative Environment**: Engage in dynamic projects and innovative exhibits. Cons 1. **Low Pay**: Not known for high salaries; passion is a must. 2. **Limited Advancement**: Fewer opportunities for quick career progression. 3. **Resource Constraints**: Often work with tight budgets, requiring creativity. 4. **Diverse Audiences**: Cater to varied visitor needs, demanding adaptability. 5. **Bureaucracy**: Navigate administrative hurdles and funding challenges. A museum career offers fascinating experiences and educational opportunities but comes with challenges like low pay and limited advancement. If you're passionate about history and education, it's a rewarding path despite the hurdles.

From The Art Newspaper: There is no end to the museum exodus Higher salaries are a major reason why mid-level museum workers are leaving for commercial gallery jobs but instability caused by the Covid pandemic is also a factor In recent years, there has been a steady march of high-profile US museum curators into the commercial sector. But look a bit deeper, and you will find the trend does not stop at the curatorial department. Mid-level registrars, senior event producers, visitor services associates, video editors, retail assistants and even museum educators are making the shift too. And their transitions may have an even bigger impact on—and reveal more about—the future of museums than those of their more famous peers. https://lnkd.in/g8iQPxN6

One benefit of the #lookingforwork process is exploring interests across many spectrums. 🖼️ I just booked tickets for Rachel and me to go to Glenstone Museum next month. I’m particularly keen on seeing the exhibit “Ellsworth Kelly at 100,” which highlights the colorful work of the influential American artist (like “Spectrum IX” shown below [photo by Ron Amstutz]). 🗯️ I’ve always been drawn to geometric artistic forms. Such pieces not only are interesting to look at up close, but they make one think about how the shapes and colors interact with each other. It’s not so much about the “thing” itself but letting go of #expectations of what “#art” is *supposed* to be. It’s about seeing beauty in the #creativeprocess itself and recognizing that just because something looks “easy” doesn’t mean it *is* easy. 🗯️ That’s a lot like the #jobsearch process: just because one has experience, education, etc., doesn’t mean that #jobs will miraculously fall from the sky. I’ve fallen into that trap before, but this time around, I know that I have to *put in* the work to *get* work. Then, once the resume is sent in, the connection made, etc., it’s out of my hands until called upon to go further. #museums #expectationmanagement #jobsearch2023 #jobsearchjourney #lettinggo

Which is better: working in a library or a museum? #LibraryvsMuseum: Making the Choice Between Two Intriguing Career Paths Are you torn between pursuing a career as a library assistant or a museum assistant? 📚🏛️ Don't worry, you're not alone! Many individuals find themselves in the same predicament, as both options offer unique and enriching experiences. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between working in a library and a museum... Read more: : https://lnkd.in/gXuFxxKd

The increased need for cultural spaces to maximise income generation means organisations have to get very clever about how they use their spaces (with the assistance of designers, and by listening to their operational teams). Of course there is the additional age old problem of where do you hide/store everything which provides quite a headache.

Showing your skills to a potential employer is crucial when applying for jobs, especially those that require a portfolio. Check out how @KoySun showcased his amazing artistic skills for an artist residency he applied for. He literally thought outside the box or in his case the briefcase 🧳. #applyingforjobs #talentshow #careeradvice #careertiktok #careertips #portfolio

Calling all Art Enthusiasts‼️ Are you passionate about art and it’s impact on society? I’m currently conducting research for a school project on the accessibility of art in the digital age and its profound influence on our appreciation, critique, and personal growth. I’m searching for individuals who are eager to share their perspectives through an interview. If you’re a communication specialist who can tell me more about the impact of the accessibility of art on the society in an interview, I’d love to connect with you. A LinkedIn post will be made about this opportunity, and I’d love for you to participate! Research Questions: In what ways does the accessibility of art (through digital museums, online galleries) affect its appreciation and critique? How does it foster internal growth, change your perspectives, and have an impact on your life with its multitude benefits? If interested, please drop a comment below or message me directly. Feel free to share this post with anyone who might be interested. Thank you for your participation in advancing our understanding of the dynamic relationship between art and accessibility. 🎨 #artresearch #digitalart #accessibility #interviewopportunity #artappreciation

BBC Bitesize has published its annual survey of the jobs 13 - 16 year olds most want to do when they are older. In at Number 10 for the first time comes Building Trade, replacing Architects. Interestingly, Artist is a new entry at Number 8. Having run an art gallery, I recall that fewer than 100 people made their living full-time selling their art (most also teach and subsidise their income in other ways). Maybe those who once wanted to be architects now want to express themselves through other media? Or is the profession now seen as technical rather than artistic? https://lnkd.in/d-8uNdMu