The collections or art fair registrar is also called an artwork registrar or "registrar." This is a professional working under the responsibility of an institution’s head.

Here is what you need to know about the career of collections registrar:

What does the job of collections or art fair manager involve?

In the culture and heritage sector, the activities of the collections or art fairs registrar are indispensable. This is why this profile is increasingly sought after. Those who wish to practice this profession can now train in specialized schools such as IESA. This institution offers various programs suited to students as well as professionals changing careers.

The role of the collections or art fairs registrar is to ensure the physical management of the works entrusted to them. They also handle administrative follow-up, restoration and the preservation of various collections.

Collections registrar

What Are the Duties of a Collections Registrar?

Over the course of their career, the collections registrar is also often called on to carry out the following duties:

  • Preserving the artworks in their care by protecting them from the elements and applying handling rules;
  • Overseeing the installation of works during an exhibition;
  • Handling the movement of the various works during a cultural event;
  • Requesting customs authorizations;
  • Taking out an insurance contract;
  • Having a work restored if needed.

What skills do you need for this career?

Questions about how to become a collections or art fair registrar come up often. To practice this profession, you must above all have several qualities such as:

  • Good general knowledge and a good understanding of the art world;
  • An excellent sense of responsibility;
  • Thoroughness;
  • Rigor.

In addition to these points, the art registrar must also demonstrate technical skill and have these various competencies:

  • A good knowledge of art history;
  • A perfect command of administrative management;
  • A good foundation in logistics management;
  • Command of office tools and software;
  • A perfect command of English.

Where does a collections or art fair registrar work?

This professional often works as an employee. However, they can also offer their services as a freelancer. Generally, a collections registrar or art fair registrar works in a museum, a library, a château… Their daily life is quite busy and their working hours are always very varied. This professional also travels frequently. Indeed, the various artistic and cultural events can take place in different regions, or even countries.

Which Programs Are Recommended to Become a Collections Registrar?

To become a collections registrar, it is important to acquire the necessary knowledge through specific training. In most cases, a Bac+5 is required. IESA is one of the best places to develop your skills and excel in this profession. Here are the programs it offers:

To pursue studies in these tracks, you must register for an admissions session and then take a test.

What is the average salary of a collections or art fair manager?

The annual salary of a collections or art fair manager varies according to skills and experience. A beginner in this profession can earn an average of €1950 gross per month (source: letudiant.fr - accessed May 2025). This range will increase as they gain experience.

In terms of career advancement, a collections manager can work independently.