Top 9 Art Handler Certifications

Certifications for an art handler are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Art handlers must have a thorough understanding of how to handle artwork safely, correctly, and efficiently. Certifications provide proof of this knowledge and can be used as evidence of credibility in the job market. They also show potential employers that an art handler is committed to their profession and has gone the extra mile to acquire additional training. Finally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement or higher-paying jobs since employers may view certified art handlers as more qualified than those without certifications.

The purpose of this article is to highlight the importance of art handler certifications and how they can help advance an art handler's career.

What are Art Handler Certifications?

Art handler certification is a professional accreditation earned by individuals who demonstrate expertise in handling, transporting, and storing artwork. This certification is offered by organizations such as the International Foundation for Art Research (IFAR) and the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF). It serves to recognize art handlers for their knowledge and experience in safely caring for valuable works of art.

By earning an art handler certification, individuals can demonstrate to employers that they are knowledgeable about the proper techniques for moving, packing, and storing artwork. It also shows potential employers that they have been trained in recognizing signs of damage or deterioration in artwork and how to respond appropriately. Furthermore, having an art handler certification could help an individual secure employment with reputable galleries, museums, or other institutions that require their employees to be certified.

Overall, earning an art handler certification can help individuals establish themselves as professionals in the field of arts management by demonstrating their dedication to safe handling practices. Not only does this make them more desirable candidates for jobs in the arts sector, but it also ensures that valuable works of art can be properly cared for during transport and storage.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming an art handler, it is important to obtain certification from an accredited organization. This will help ensure that you have the proper training and knowledge to handle artwork safely and professionally. Additionally, some employers may require specific certifications or qualifications in order to be hired as an art handler.

Related: What does an Art Handler do?

Top 9 Art Handler Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Art Handlers today.

1. International Association of Professional Art Handlers (IAPAH) Certified Art Handler

The International Association of Professional Art Handlers (IAPAH) Certified Art Handler is a certification program that recognizes the professional skills and experience of art handlers. The program is designed to promote professionalism, safety, and best practices in the handling and movement of artwork.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of two years’ experience in art handling or related fields, such as gallery management or museum curation. They must also pass an online exam that covers topics such as packing and crating techniques, loading and unloading artwork, and safe transport methods. The exam fee is $100 USD.

Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants will receive their IAPAH Certified Art Handler Certificate. This certificate is valid for three years before it must be renewed by taking the same online exam again.

The IAPAH Certified Art Handler Program is open to professionals from all countries and provides an internationally recognized standard in art handling practice. It is a valuable asset for any professional working with artwork on a regular basis.

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Art Handler Certification

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Art Handler Certification is a professional certification program that provides museum staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely handle, transport, and install works of art. It is designed to ensure the safe handling of artwork in any environment, from galleries to private collections.

The certification process takes approximately three months and includes an online course and a practical assessment. The online course covers topics such as proper handling techniques, safety protocols, risk management, and how to identify potential hazards. Upon completion of the online course, participants must complete a practical assessment at a MoMA facility in order to receive their certification.

To get MoMA Art Handler Certification, you must first register for the program on the MoMA website. Once registered, you will be provided with access to the online course material and instructions on how to proceed with your assessment. The cost of registration is $300 USD.

Once you have completed both the online course and practical assessment successfully, you will receive your official MoMA Art Handler Certification card which is valid for two years from date of issue. After two years have passed you may renew your certification by completing a refresher assessment at any MoMA facility.

3. International Foundation for Cultural Property Protection (IFCPP) Certified Art Handler

The International Foundation for Cultural Property Protection (IFCPP) Certified Art Handler is a certification program designed to ensure that art handlers have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle artwork safely and securely. The certification is based on a comprehensive set of standards developed by IFCPP, which are designed to promote the safe handling and transport of artwork.

To become an IFCPP Certified Art Handler, applicants must complete a series of courses and exams covering topics such as proper packing techniques, environmental conditions, security measures, and disaster preparedness. The program typically takes four weeks to complete.

In order to apply for the certification, applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess at least two years of experience in handling artwork or related fields. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience with handling artwork safely and securely.

The cost of the IFCPP Certified Art Handler program varies depending on the length of the course taken. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $500 to $2,000 USD.

4. National Gallery of Art (NGA) Certified Art Handler

The National Gallery of Art (NGA) Certified Art Handler is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle art safely and effectively. It is designed for art handlers, conservators, curators, and other museum professionals who are responsible for the handling, transport, installation, and storage of artwork.

It typically takes about six months to complete the NGA Certified Art Handler program. The program consists of three components: an online course; a hands-on workshop; and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as basic handling techniques, safety protocols, packing methods, and storage solutions. The hands-on workshop provides participants with the opportunity to practice their skills in an actual museum setting. Finally, the final exam tests the participant’s knowledge of all aspects of handling artwork.

To become certified as an NGA Certified Art Handler, you must first apply for admission to the program by submitting your resume and a letter of recommendation from a supervisor or colleague. Once accepted into the program, you will be required to pay a fee which covers tuition costs and materials needed for the online course and hands-on workshop. The cost of becoming an NGA Certified Art Handler varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $500 - $1,000 USD.

Once you have successfully completed all three components of the program, you will receive your certification from the National Gallery of Art upon passing your final exam. Upon completion of this certification process you will be recognized as an expert in art handling with specialized knowledge in areas such as conservation techniques, packing methods, storage solutions and more!

5. Association of Moving Image Archivists (AMIA) Certified Art Handler

The Association of Moving Image Archivists (AMIA) Certified Art Handler is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate proficiency in the safe handling, transport, and storage of works of art on film and video. The certification is intended for those who work with moving image collections in archives, libraries, museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions.

To become an AMIA Certified Art Handler, applicants must successfully complete a two-day training course that covers topics such as safe handling techniques for various types of media, environmental considerations for storage and transport, and risk management strategies. The cost of the training course is $850 USD. After completing the course and passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, applicants will receive their AMIA Certified Art Handler certification.

The AMIA Certified Art Handler program is designed to be completed within two days; however, it may take longer depending on individual learning needs. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice sessions. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive their certification which is valid for three years from the date of issuance.

The cost to become an AMIA Certified Art Handler is $850 USD which includes all materials needed for the course as well as lunch during each day of instruction.

6. International Institute for Conservation (IIC) Certified Art Handler

The International Institute for Conservation (IIC) Certified Art Handler is a professional qualification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the handling and care of works of art. It is designed to provide assurance to employers, collectors, and other stakeholders that the art handler has been trained to the highest standards.

The IIC Certified Art Handler program consists of two parts: an online course and an assessment. The online course covers topics such as safe handling techniques, environmental conditions, packaging materials, storage solutions, and conservation treatments. The assessment includes practical tests on art handling skills and knowledge. To become certified, applicants must pass both parts with a minimum score of 80%.

The certification process typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete. First, applicants must register for the online course through the IIC website. Once they have completed the coursework and passed the assessment, they will be issued their certificate.

The cost of becoming an IIC Certified Art Handler depends on which country you are in; however, it typically ranges from £200-£500 ($250-$625).

7. Smithsonian Institution Certified Art Handler

The Smithsonian Institution Certified Art Handler is a professional certification program for art handlers, which is offered through the Smithsonian Institution's Office of Protective Services. The program provides training and certification for individuals who work with museum collections, including handling, packing, storing, and transporting works of art.

The program consists of a two-day workshop that covers topics such as safety protocols, proper handling techniques, and best practices for packing and transporting artwork. After completing the workshop, participants must pass an exam to receive their certification.

To get the Smithsonian Institution Certified Art Handler certification, interested individuals must first contact the Office of Protective Services to register for the workshop. The cost of the workshop is $400 per person and includes all materials needed to complete the course.

8. International Council of Museums (ICOM) Certified Art Handler

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) Certified Art Handler is a certification program that recognizes professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced in the handling, installation, and transport of art. It is designed to ensure that the highest standards are met when it comes to the care and handling of artwork.

The certification process requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities through a series of written exams and practical tests. The exams cover topics such as safety procedures, packing techniques, storage solutions, shipping methods, and more. Applicants must also complete an online course on museum conservation practices.

It typically takes about two years to complete the certification process. During this time, applicants must pass all required exams and attend at least one ICOM-approved training course.

To get certified as an ICOM Certified Art Handler, you must first apply for the program by submitting an application form along with supporting documents such as proof of education or experience in art handling. Once your application is approved by ICOM, you will be given access to the exam materials and training courses. After successfully completing all required exams and courses, you will receive your certification from ICOM.

The cost of becoming an ICOM Certified Art Handler varies depending on which country you are applying from. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1000 USD for the entire process including exam fees and course costs.

9. American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Certified Art Handler

The American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Certified Art Handler is a certification program for those who handle art and cultural heritage materials. The AIC Certified Art Handler program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to safely handle, transport, install, and store art objects.

The certification process includes an online course, a written exam, and a practical skills assessment. The online course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. The written exam is open book and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, applicants must score at least 70%. The practical skills assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to safely move art objects using appropriate techniques and equipment.

To become an AIC Certified Art Handler, applicants must first register with the AIC website and pay the registration fee of $250 USD. Once registered, applicants will receive access to the online course material as well as instructions on how to schedule their written exam and practical skills assessment. Applicants must successfully complete all three components of the certification process within one year in order to receive their AIC Certified Art Handler certificate.

Do You Really Need a Art Handler Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an art handler certificate in order to work as an art handler. However, having an art handler certificate may be beneficial in some cases. An art handler certificate can give prospective employers and clients assurance that you are knowledgeable about the care and handling of artwork and valuable objects. It can also provide a sense of credibility to your skillset, as it indicates that you have taken the time to learn about how to properly store and transport artwork safely.

For those who are serious about pursuing a career in art handling, getting certified can be a great way to demonstrate your commitment and dedication to the field. It will also give you access to resources such as insurance providers, specialized equipment suppliers, or even job postings from employers looking for qualified handlers. Certification may also prove helpful if you decide to pursue further education in this area. Having an official certification will allow you to apply for higher level positions or even start your own business as an independent contractor.

At the end of the day, whether or not you should get certified depends on what type of career path you plan on taking within the art handling industry. If you find that having a certification would help advance your career goals and provide additional benefits, then it might be worth considering obtaining one.

Related: Art Handler Resume Examples

FAQs About Art Handler Certifications

1. What is an art handler certification?

Answer: An art handler certification is a professional accreditation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience of handling artwork safely and securely. It is an important credential for those working in the art world, and can help ensure that artwork is handled with the utmost care.

2. Who should get an art handler certification?

Answer: Art handlers, museum curators, gallery owners, conservators, and anyone who works with or transports artwork should consider getting certified. The certification will demonstrate their commitment to proper handling and storage of artwork, as well as their knowledge of safety protocols when transporting or displaying pieces.

3. How do I obtain an art handler certification?

Answer: To obtain an art handler certification, you must complete a course offered by a recognized institution such as the American Institute for Conservation (AIC). The course covers topics such as artwork handling techniques, storage options, transport safety measures, and more. Once completed, you must submit your certificate to AIC for review to receive your official certification.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: Depending on the institution offering the course and your own knowledge base, it can take anywhere from two weeks to several months to obtain an art handler certification. It’s important to be prepared before taking the course so you can move through it quickly and efficiently.

5. Is there a cost associated with obtaining an art handler certification?

Answer: Yes, most institutions offering courses require payment of a fee in order to enroll in the program and receive your certificate upon completion of the coursework.