The essential practical handbook for curators and curatorial students, mapping out every stage of the exhibition-making process from initial idea to final installation. The author traces the history of curating back to its origins in the 17th century and outlines the roles of the curator today as custodian, interpreter, educator, facilitator and organizer - from concept to contracts and loan requests, budgets and schedules, exhibition catalogues and interpretation materials, to designing gallery spaces, working with artists and lenders, organizing private views, and documenting and evaluating a show. Distinguished international museum directors and curators offer advice and tips throughout.