Associate Curator of African Art [University of Michigan Museum of Art]

UMMA Mission: The University of Michigan Museum of Art seeks to transform individual and civic life by promoting the discovery, contemplation, and enjoyment of the art of our world.

Position Summary

This unique opportunity will appeal to the candidate who thrives in a cohesive, team-based environment and who understands the possibilities and challenges of being a part of a large, public research university environment.  For full consideration, please provide a cover letter with resume, describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position requirements. Please apply to posting #100987 at the University of Michigan website:  umjobs.org.

The Associate Curator of African Art is responsible for organizing exhibitions, planning programs, and publications; overseeing maintenance, conservation and installation of African art; initiating research on acquisitions, loans and the permanent collection; fielding public inquiries and overseeing presence in this area on UMMA’s website; and assuming stewardship and donor cultivation responsibilities. This position reports to the Museum Director of UMMA.

Duties and Responsibilities

Will be responsible for shaping the Museum’s African program through energetic contacts with dealers, artists, collectors, museum patrons and members of the University community, and through innovative exhibition and judicious additions to the collections.

Will be an important member of the Museum’s curatorial team and will be expected to participate in developing the Museum’s overall exhibition program, formulating acquisition policies, recommending works for purchase, assisting with fund raising activities, and creating and monitoring budgets.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Ph.D is preferred.  A Masters degree in African art history or comparable field is required with evidence of scholarly research and writing about African art. Three to five years experience working in a museum or equivalent experience is necessary. Must have a keen eye and broad knowledge of African art, which spans historical to contemporary, as well as of professional museum practices.  Prior experience in a university setting is desired.  The ability to work as part of a team, with an interest in teaching and mentoring students is also necessary.  Significant experience working with diverse constituencies, including artists, collectors, donors, and the general public is required.  Excellent computer skills, written and oral communication abilities are required.