Budgeting for Exhibitions and Art Organizations
Online course by Node Center for Curatorial Studies
Tutor: Tom Koch
Duration: 10 August–7 September 2026
Enrolment deadline: 6 August 2026
Course fee: €189, including VAT
Live sessions: Two hours per week
Maximum capacity: 32 participants
Course Description
The most important tool for managing finances in exhibitions or arts projects is a well-planned budget. Whether working independently or within an institution, understanding how to manage financial resources is key to ensuring that a project is executed professionally.
This course will provide participants with the knowledge and practical tools needed to draft, plan and control budgets at every stage of a project. Participants will learn how to allocate resources effectively, anticipate challenges and keep a project on track from concept to execution, enabling them to manage resources with clarity and confidence.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this five-week course, participants will be able to:
- Draft, plan and control both general and project-specific budgets.
- Monitor the progress of a project and manage its financial health.
- Identify and navigate budget discrepancies.
- Maintain clear, organised and well-structured project finances.
Who Is This Course For?
This course is designed for people working in—or aiming to work in—the organisation of exhibitions and the management of art organisations who want to manage resources effectively and keep their finances organised.
No prior knowledge is required, although familiarity with exhibitions or cultural projects will be helpful. A basic understanding of spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel, Apple Numbers or Google Sheets is also recommended.
How It Works
Each week combines expert-led sessions with individual or group activities. Optional assignments and additional materials, including budget templates for use in professional work, will also be provided.
Collaborative exercises will be conducted using Miro, an online whiteboard tool. No prior experience with Miro is required, although participants are encouraged to explore the platform briefly before the course begins.
Image credit: rc.xyz NFT gallery via Unsplash