Cranbrook Art Museum has entered an exciting period of growth. In 2011, the Museum completed a construction project, which realized not only the restoration of its landmark Eliel Saarinen-designed building but also the addition of a new Collections Wing. The Museum’s collections (including the restored 1930 Saarinen House) and exhibitions (which focus on the leading-edge of contemporary art, architecture, craft, and design), as well as the studio-based practices of the faculty and 150 graduate students of the world-renowned Cranbrook Academy of Art, all provide the creative context for this position.

Working collaboratively with the Director, Curator of Education, Head Registrar, Preparator, Collections Fellow, and the staff and faculty of the Academy of Art and the new Center for Collections and Research (housed within the Museum), the Curator will develop and present to Academy and public audiences a program of temporary exhibitions; oversee the development of exhibition-related programming and special events for college and adult audiences; work with the Director on the development of the Museum’s collection; and serve as a key link between the Museum and the faculty and students of the Academy, participating in the students’ studio-based education. The Curator supervises a graduate work-study student serving as a Research Assistant, coordinates guest curators, and works with the Director to supervise the Collections Fellow. The Curator serves as a key spokesperson for the Museum, working with the Director to develop audiences and patrons.

For consideration, please submit a cover letter, résumé, publication samples, a one-page exhibition proposal, and a completed Cranbrook Employee Application to: Cranbrook HR, P.O. Box 801, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303-0801. Our Application form can be downloaded from the Employment Page on our website at www.cranbrook.edu. Cranbrook offers a competitive salary and benefit package that includes medical, dental, life, and retirement.

Cranbrook Educational Community is comprised of Cranbrook Schools, the Academy of Art and Art Museum, an Institute of Science, and Cranbrook House & Gardens. Located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Cranbrook’s 319-acre campus is a National Historic Landmark that welcomes tens of thousands of museum visitors each year to its Art Museum and Institute of Science. Cranbrook also is home to more than 1,600 students in grades pre-K through 12 attending Cranbrook Schools. Cranbrook is an equal opportunity employer and strives to provide a work environment that welcomes diversity.

Job Requirements

The Curator position requires at least an M.A. in Art History and a broad knowledge of 20th– and 21st-century art, architecture, crafts, and design and, critically, a creative intellect that can explore their intersections; a demonstrated specialization and publication record in a contemporary aspect of these fields; at least five years of curatorial experience; an existing network of contacts with artists, dealers, and collectors; excellent public speaking as well as writing and research skills; a demonstrated record of effective planning and management skills; computer fluency; and a desire to work collaboratively in a dynamic and evolving environment. A valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record is required. Please note that applicants at the Assistant or Associate Curator rank also will be considered.