1

Art Historian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Historian A

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$51K - $76K/yr

The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, and a renowned research library, the John D ...

Showing results 21-40

Art Historian information

See salary details

$30.5K

$86.3K

$137.5K

How much do art historian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for art historian in the United States is $86,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an art historian do?

An Art Historian studies and analyzes artistic movements, individual works of art, and cultural contexts to understand their historical significance. They research and interpret art from different periods, often working in museums, universities, or galleries. Their work may involve writing articles, curating exhibitions, or teaching about art history. Some also authenticate and appraise artworks for institutions or collectors.

What are the typical work environments for art historians and how do they collaborate with others?

Art Historians work in a variety of settings, including museums, galleries, universities, and cultural organizations. Collaboration is a significant part of the role, often involving curators, educators, archivists, and other researchers to plan exhibitions, conduct joint research, or contribute to educational programs. Many Art Historians also publish scholarly articles or present at conferences, requiring clear communication and teamwork. Depending on the employer, some positions may involve travel to research sites or attend events, while others focus more on teaching or curatorial activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an art historian, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Art Historian, you need in-depth knowledge of art history, research proficiency, and a relevant degree such as a Master's or PhD in Art History or a related field. Regular use of research databases, digital archiving tools, and presentation software is common in this career. Strong analytical thinking, written and verbal communication skills, and attention to detail help set candidates apart. These abilities are essential for accurately interpreting and communicating art’s historical significance and for collaborating with educational or cultural institutions.

Are art historians in demand?

Art historians are employed in museums, galleries, academic institutions, and cultural organizations, but overall demand is moderate and varies by region and specialization. Job growth is steady but competitive, often requiring advanced degrees and research skills. Opportunities may be influenced by funding, cultural trends, and the preservation of historical sites.

Do art historians make money?

Art historians' salaries vary based on experience, education, and employment setting, such as museums, universities, or research institutions. Entry-level positions often have modest pay, while senior roles or those with specialized expertise can earn higher salaries. Many art historians supplement income through consulting, writing, or curatorial work.

What jobs can art historians do?

Art historians can work as museum curators, gallery directors, art appraisers, conservators, researchers, educators, or archivists. They often utilize skills in research, analysis, and visual literacy, and may require knowledge of art history, conservation techniques, or digital tools for documentation and presentation.
More about Art Historian jobs

What cities are hiring for Art Historian jobs?

Cities with the most Art Historian job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Art Historian jobs?

The top employers for Art Historian jobs are:

What states have the most Art Historian jobs?

States with the most job openings for Art Historian jobs include:

Infographic showing various Art Historian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,335 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Art History

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Middletown, CT • On-site

$75 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Wesleyan University, founded in 1831, is a diverse, energetic liberal arts community where critical thinking and practical idealism go hand in hand.

Position Overview

Department of Art and Art History invites applications for a tenure‑track Assistant Professor of Art History, beginning July 1, 2027. We seek a historian of pre‑modern Islamic Art, working on periods before 1800. Specialists in any subfield or geographic region are welcome; special consideration will be given to scholars of South, Central, and/or West Asian art. Candidates from the fields of art and architectural history and archaeology are welcome to apply.

The teaching load is 2/2 on campus. Additional duties include advising and mentoring students, carrying out a program of research, and participating in faculty governance at the departmental and university level. Wesleyan values scholarship and teaching, offers a generous sabbatical program and competitive salaries and benefits. Successful candidates will join a distinguished Art History Program that shares the university’s commitment to teaching and research. A robust scholarly practice is expected and a strong publishing record during the first years will be required for promotion.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in Art History or a related field in hand by the time of appointment. A successful candidate may be hired as an Instructor if the Ph.D. is not yet completed, but the Ph.D. must be completed within one year of hire.

Application Requirements
  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Statement of current research
  • Writing sample (dissertation chapter or published article)
  • Documentation of teaching interests and/or experience, including teaching statement and course syllabi, and student evaluations if available

In the cover letter, applicants should describe how they will embrace the college’s commitment to fostering an inclusive community. Applicants will also provide contact information for three referees from whom confidential letters of recommendation will be obtained.

Applications completed by December 1, 2026 will receive full consideration.

Work location: On campus.
All offers to external applicants are contingent on completion of a pre‑employment background check screening to the satisfaction of Wesleyan University.

Contact: Song Keng Teoh, Administrative Assistant, Art History, steoh@wesleyan.edu, 860-685-2682.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Wesleyan University, located in Middletown, Connecticut, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, marital status, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, learning disability or physical disability, political belief, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or non‑position‑related criminal record. We welcome applications from women and historically underrepresented minority groups. Inquiries regarding Title IX, Section 504 or any other non‑discrimination policies should be directed to Vice President for Equity and Inclusion, Title IX and ADA/504 Coordinator. Wesleyan University complies with the Clery Act and maintains records of campus crime statistics and security policies. Copies of Wesleyan University’s Clery Act Report are available on request and online at https://www.wesleyan.edu/publicsafety/clery.html.

For more information on compensation, visit https://www.wesleyan.edu/hr/handbook/compensation-practices/index.html. For detailed information on employee benefits and development opportunities, visit https://wesleyan.edu/hr/careers/prospective-resources.html.

#J-18808-Ljbffr