I am: An art curator and owner of a gallery called 'VIART' (Vision in Art) in Delhi.

My age: 30

My job: The job of an art curator is highly creative and stimulating. To be in today's art market, it's important to have a vision. When presenting an art show, not only are the artist's works being judged, but the curator's ability, the calibre of the show and the creativity - everything is evaluated.

The Modus Operandi : It's important for me to be in constant touch with what artists are working on. I make it a point to visit the artists' studios - that way I can not only learn more about their work and their styles, but also pick up works for the gallery and select works for the art shows planned. I also help corporate houses develop their art collections. Travelling is essential to educate myself on new artists and exhibitions. Curators plan the artists for the shows, the catalogues, which include the images of the work to be shown and a carefully developed argument to support such an exhibition. Decisions about the number of works in a show, where the show is to be installed, which galleries are to be used, the appropriateness of images, and many other procedural issues are all responsibilities of the curator. As for the curator's earnings, it depends on the show - the kind of show, the artistes participating in the show, etc. On a minimum basis it can be around Rs 35,000 to Rs 40,000. A change of he(art): I have grown up seeing good art on a regular basis, thanks to my mother Rano Singh Jaipuria, a well-known interior designer. I realised that I had an eye for good work and that's when I found myself drawn towards the art world.

The stepping stones : I planned my first art show in April 2003 at the

Visual Arts Gallery, Habitat Center. It was called 'Art and Interiors'.

The artists that participated in the show were very supportive and attracted the art lovers, but I wanted to reach out to the segment that did not understand art. The show was very well received and helped create a wider audience. My goal: To bring art closer to the people and break the myth that all good art is unaffordable. I feel it is important that art reaches every one.

Ashna Singh Jaipuria spoke to Purabi Shridhar

So You Want To Become An Art Curator?

• Education in the field of art surely helps.But if you've not received a formal education in the field, it's important to keep educatingyourself.

• Today the profession is open to anyone with a love of art.

• There's great competition, so it's important to create a niche for yourself.

• It's necessary to come up with exciting and creative ideas for an exhibition.

• The ability to find and get artists to participate in shows and looking for the right pieces when visiting the artist's studios is equally important.

• Have alternative spaces for exhibitions to create interest and awareness.

GOT COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS? E-MAIL US AT femina@timesgroup.com WITH 'on the job - frame up' IN THE SUBJECT LINE