Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art [Ulrich Museum of Art]

The Ulrich Museum of Art at Wichita State University seeks candidates for the position Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Founded in 1974, the Ulrich is a nationally recognized university art museum emphasizing modern and contemporary art and based in the largest metropolitan area in Kansas.  The WSU outdoor sculpture collection was noted among the Top Ten in Pubic Art Review in 2006. Museum endowments generously support active collection acquisition. With 6,250 square feet of gallery space, the Ulrich presents a schedule of 8 to 10 rotating exhibitions annually, regularly self-organized and/or drawn from the permanent collection of over 6,300 works of art. As a university art museum devoted to learning, the Ulrich explores the power of the visual arts to communicate with and expand educational opportunities for the diverse community of Wichita State University, Wichita and the region.

The Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art reports to the museum director and works collaboratively with other staff in a team environment. Primary responsibilities include the development and implementation of a dynamic temporary exhibitions program, meaningful collaborations with WSU faculty and students, and impactful interaction with area artists and other community stakeholders.   Important aspects of this position are interest and ability to meaningfully connect with students, faculty and community partners, and cultivate patrons and art collectors. The Ulrich Museum of Art seeks a candidate committed to broad-based learning strategies to creatively interpret and contextualize contemporary art for students and audiences of all ages.

A Master’s degree in art history, art, or museum studies is required. Demonstrated evidence of clear writing and public speaking about art. Experience with curatorial organization (3 years experience preferred). Commitment to diversity. Evidence of past innovative, interdisciplinary program development.

Candidates must apply on line at jobs.wichita.edu and click on unclassified positions. Candidates must submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references.  A writing sample not to exceed 20 pages in PDF format is also required. Application deadline is January 2, 2015.  Preferred start date is March 1, 2015. You may learn more about the Ulrich Museum and its programs at www.ulrich.wichita.edu.  All offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a satisfactory criminal background check as required by Board of Regents policy. Wichita State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art balances responsibilities for student and community engagement through modern and contemporary art, with acquisitions and collections development.  Important aspects of this position are interest and ability to meaningfully connect with students, engage faculty and community partners, and cultivate patrons and art collectors.

Develop student engagement opportunities within the context of Ulrich Museum activities, both independently and in cooperation with School of Art, Design, and Creative Industries faculty.

Care for and interpret objects belonging to or lent to the museum and develop the museum’s collection.

Conceive, develop, and organize exhibitions and manage their related interpretive projects, including work in print and on line.

Proactively engage with faculty in multiple disciplines to assure the effective engagement of students from across campus in the curatorial and educational activities of the museum.

Proactively engage the local and regional artist communities to create and sustain effective communications and involvement in the activities of the Ulrich Museum.

Cultivate and actively engage faculty, community partners, and area educators to assure meaningful dialogue between the museum and these key stakeholders.

Cultivate donors of works of art, and grow new collectors through positive involvement with patrons and other community members.