How Do I Become an Art Agent?

When it comes to becoming an art agent, you may have to follow a less traditional path to meet your goal. There are no degree requirements for someone who is seeking this job, though earning a degree in an art- or business-related major may help you understand the industry and prepare well for the business tasks you will have to perform as an art agent. You will likely also need a website, business phone line, and a good plan for attracting clients and promoting them. Additionally, you will need contracts, which you may want to ask a lawyer to review, that spell out the business relationships you have with your clients.

You won't typically need a degree to become an art agent. With this career choice, you are essentially starting your own business, so you won't have to meet an employer's educational requirements. Having the right background, however, can influence your chances for success and help you to attract potential clients. A background in the arts may help you gain a better understanding of the industry and a better eye for evaluating talent, so earning an art degree may prove helpful.

Many experts, however, assert that earning a business degree is more important than earning an art degree. When you want to become an art agent, such a degree can help you build the skills necessary to run your own business, learn how to create contracts, and develop negotiation skills. If you have trouble deciding whether to opt for an art or business degree, you might choose to major in business and minor in art. Additionally, taking on internships in the art industry can help you prepare for this career.

Your contacts will likely prove one of your most vital assets as you work to become an art agent. As such, one of your primary goals will likely include building contacts with artists and other professionals in the art industry. In some cases, this may even include other agents, such as those who represent people in a field of art different from the one you choose. In such a case, you can trade referrals with these agents. You may want to start building your contact list before you even graduate from college, however, as waiting until you are ready to start signing contracts can lead to a slower startup.

Once you are ready to become an art agent, you will likely need to set up an office, even if you do so at home; establish a phone line; and get a business license. You also should set up a website for attracting clients and create a business plan that details how you will start and gradually expand your business. Additionally, you will need to create contracts to use with clients — having a lawyer review them can help ensure they cover all the necessary legal bases.