The work of an art editor varies depending on the publication for which she works. The term is often used to refer to a design or layout professional whose job it is to select photos or other images for a publication and ensure that they are displayed effectively on the page. The term can also refer to the editor of a newspaper’s arts pages, who is in charge of assigning stories and approving art-related content for that section.
In some publishing houses, the art editor oversees a team of designers who are in charge of the publication’s overall appearance. This group is responsible for the product layout as well as the overall design look and consistency. They’re usually in charge of all photos, graphic elements, and illustrations, and they can work in both print and digital publishing systems. Often, especially at larger publishing houses, this group is also in charge of producing online video productions.
The art editor, rather than being in charge of an arts department, is often the sole contributor to an arts section for small or independent publications. She selects topics, conducts interviews, writes reviews, and photographs the results. She might also write articles and double-check facts and figures. In smaller publishing houses, there is usually no other staff to contribute.
The art editor at larger publications with an arts section is often only in charge of selecting and editing articles, illustrations, and photographs for publication. She rarely, if ever, contributes personal thoughts to the section. Staff members and freelancers who report to her write reviews, articles, photographs, and art submissions in this case.
If only paintings, drawings, and sculpture are included in the art section, the job of an art editor can be limited. Articles and photographs about television, music, and film may be included in the editing tasks if art is interpreted more broadly. Art sections with such a broad scope are typically found in larger publications, and they frequently focus on different art mediums on different days of the week.
This position places a high value on meeting deadlines. She is frequently required to write, edit, verify, and submit error-free copy within hours of receiving data. If a team is involved, the art editor must maintain constant contact with them in order to meet deadlines.
It is highly desirable for an art editor to have a genuine interest in the arts. Readers are drawn to articles about events and news in the art world because they are written with genuine enthusiasm. It also contributes to the publication’s overall success.