From fabricators to mummy conservators to private collection managers, the art world is full of fascinating jobs you may not have realized even existed. In artnet News’s column “My Art Job,” we delve into these enviable art-world occupations, asking insiders to share their career path and advice for others who wish to follow in their footsteps.

This week, we spoke with David Kratz, artist and president of the New York Academy of Art, which holds its star-studded Tribeca Ball, honoring Mickalene Thomas, on Monday, April 9, 2018. 

Education: I studied English literature and studio art at Dartmouth in New Hampshire. I am embarrassed to admit it, but I also got a law degree at Boston University. Much later, I got a masters at the New York Academy of Art.

How I got my professional start: In college, I studied abroad in London. I enjoyed it so much that I went straight back to London after graduation to work for a Hollywood PR firm. I was their staff writer during the day and at night I got to escort actors around the city. For a young man let loose in a big city, it was really interesting. I remember taking out Jane Seymour and Zsa Zsa Gabor! Read more