Job Description
Curatorial Assistant, Modern and Contemporary Art Job Category : Curatorial Requisition Number : CURAT001574 Apply now Posted: November 27, 2024 Full-Time Locations Showing 1 location Audrey Jones Beck The Audrey Jones Beck Building 5601 Main St Houston, TX 77005, USA The Curatorial Assistant will work with and support the Modern&Contemporary Curatorial Department on a wide range of activities to support exhibitions, collection management, scholarly research, community engagement, fundraising, and other related administrative requirements based upon given needs. Responsibilities: Aid in the development, planning, and implementation of curatorial strategies and activities that relate to all aspects of collection management and development, departmental and special exhibitions, research, and public service. Act as a vital inter-departmental liaison, working closely with colleagues in curatorial and across the museum, including but not limited to the departments of Learning and Interpretation, Registration, Exhibitions and Exhibition Design, Visitor Services, Development, and Marketing. Work flexible hours and be public-facing while collaborating with the Museum’s board of trustees, support base, general public, colleagues at other institutions, independent scholars, students, and artists. More specific tasks include: Draft written content, including collection reports, labels, and interpretation materials for curatorial projects. Publish and lecture on curatorial projects, exhibitions, and collections. Research contemporary artists and art trends in relation to the Museum. Coordinate curatorial needs for installations and subcommittee meetings. Participate in scholarly activities that promote our collections and exhibitions. Permanent Collection Ensure stewardship of the collections, their care and preservation. Coordinate collections management operations, working with curators to develop objectives. Respond to inquiries from the public regarding loans, accessions, and donations. Research and prepare acquisition reports for new acquisitions. Exhibitions Facilitate exhibition content development with curators and the department of Learning and Interpretation. Collaborate with the Exhibition department as project manager for specific exhibitions. Secure rights and reproduction permissions for catalogues and didactic copy. Public Programs Assist in public programs and educational outreach activities. Provide public tours and informal talks as needed. Marketing and Communications Assist in developing marketing and public relation materials for the department. Other General Requirements Assist in the supervision of interns, fellows, and volunteers. Lead visiting scholars and dignitaries through the collection. May travel to view artworks or visit artists’ studios as needed. May represent the department or Museum at functions. Skills, Knowledge and Abilities: In-depth knowledge of the field and art history. Broad museum knowledge. Sophisticated research and writing skills. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Experience in project coordination and administration. Ability to work under tight deadlines. Strong interpersonal skills. Fluency in a language other than English. Knowledge of curatorial resource care and preservation practices. Interest in cultural heritage work and community engagement. Enthusiasm for the museum profession. Education and Experience: M.A in Art History A minimum of 2 years of museum or curatorial experience required. About the MFAH The MFAH is an organization comprised of 600 employees and 1,000 docents and volunteers. The museum is over 100 years old and ranks among the top 10 art museums in the U.S. with 1M visitors annually. Our multifaceted institution includes multiple gallery buildings, a sculpture garden, two art schools, and more. The MFAH offers a supportive, collegial, and inclusive work environment with a competitive benefits package. Working Conditions and Physical Demands Work primarily in museum offices, conference rooms, and galleries. Must undergo relevant criminal background and professional reference checks. Ability to handle and complete multiple tasks. Good vision or corrected vision for reading and viewing. Note: Must be willing to work flexible hours for important Museum events. Equal Opportunities for All The MFAH is committed to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusivity in our hiring practices. Compensation: Salary will be commensurate with experience and needs expressed in the job description. Application Procedure Qualified applicants should apply online with a cover letter, resume or CV, and optional references. J-18808-Ljbffr