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Art Historians research and explore the way art has developed throughout human history. They might focus their interest on a specific medium within a historical period (eg, decor and fashions in the Elizabethan age) or take a broader look at how art movements intersect with lifestyle and culture (eg, how the industrial revolution propelled the Art Nouveau movement in Europe).
As a Art Historian you might be verifying the authenticity of a painting, preserving a piece of tribal art, leading a tour group at an important cultural site, cataloguing art pieces for an art museum, or writing a journal article that unpacks the findings of key research.
It’s a specialist occupation that advances our understanding of the creative process as well as world history.
There are 4 courses available for people who want to become an Art Historian.
Possible job outcomes:
The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) (History) fosters a deep comprehension of past societies and critical events. It hones investigative skills, encouraging critical analysis of historical records and the development of evidence-based interpretations. The course emphasises the crafting of cogent arguments and understanding historiographical methods, preparing graduates for advanced research or careers requiring strong analytical and reflective thinking..
Average duration: 12 months.
The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) (Art History) delves into the visual and material culture from various periods and regions. This course cultivates an understanding of artistic movements, iconography, and aesthetics, alongside the socio-political influences on art. It sharpens critical thinking and visual analysis skills through in-depth study and research. Graduates emerge as connoisseurs equipped to contribute to the academic, curatorial, and cultural sectors, understanding art's historical significance and its dialogue with contemporary issues..
The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) (Ancient History) offers an in-depth exploration of the world’s earliest civilisations. Students examine the social, political, and cultural developments from antiquity, developing skills in critical analysis and evidence-based arguments. The curriculum includes the study of classical languages, archaeology, and the interpretation of ancient artefacts. Graduates emerge with a nuanced understanding of historical contexts that continue to influence contemporary society, preparing them for diverse roles in education, heritage sectors, and research..
The Bachelor of Arts (Ancient History) immerses students in the worlds of ancient Greece and Rome, utilizing myths, artifacts, and literature as resources. It explores classical ideas, politics, and cultures, studying political systems, religion, law, mythology, and more. Students analyze translated ancient texts within their historical contexts and investigate key societal concepts like leadership, democracy, human rights, and storytelling. The course also delves into the politics, culture, mythology, and influential legacies of Greece and Rome, alongside their distinctive qualities..
Average duration: 3 years.
Art Historians generally earn between $80,000 and $100,000 per annum. You can increase your earning capacity by publishing books, papers, and educational materials based on your research.
There are currently about 500 historians currently working in Australia, some of these are art historians. They work for universities and academic institutions, libraries, art galleries, art museums, and cultural centres.
Art Historians are sometimes hired as independent consultants to film, documentary, and screen media studios to ensure the historical accuracy of costumes, art and furnishings in their productions. They can also be sourced for interviews and magazine articles by journalists and media companies.
To become a Art Historian you will need a Bachelor of Fine Art or Bachelor of Arts (Art History). Many Art Historians also have post-graduate qualifications in specialist areas like indigenous art, Australian colonial art, classical art, and the development of graffiti and street art.
If you have your heart set on a career as an Art Historian, you will also benefit by honing your written communication skills and learning the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) with proficiency.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within arts and culture. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Arts and Culture
Library Assistant
$960 weekly pay
Museum Assistant
Archivist
$1,250 weekly pay
Art Curator
$1,350 weekly pay
Cultural Advisor
Curator
Heritage Consultant
Historian
$1,530 weekly pay
Historical Researcher
Librarian
Museum Curator
Art Historian
$1,950 weekly pay
Cultural Heritage Officer
$2,020 weekly pay
Gallery Curator
$1,500 weekly pay
Heritage Specialist
Museum Director
$1,800 weekly pay
Senior Curator
$1,925 weekly pay