Posted August 18, 2014.

Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University

Assistant Curator

Job Summary:

The Assistant Curator will act as curator for museum exhibitions, including coordinating, planning, managing, and executing the details related to these exhibitions and related programming. This position will also be responsible for researching, writing, and other duties in relation to the permanent collection, catalogues, and other exhibitions. The Assistant Curator reports to the Chief Curator and works closely with all members of the curatorial department.

Job Duties:

Act as coordinating curator or assistant for exhibitions originating either at the Nasher Museum or outside venues. Correspond and coordinate with Nasher curators, guest curators, University faculty, and outside exhibition organizers to develop, plan, and execute the details of the exhibition. Travel to other venues, liaise with exhibition curators and other museum professionals. In consultation with the Exhibition Designer and Chief Curator, create floor plans and layouts for exhibitions.

Develop and coordinate exhibition programming.

Undertake major object-based art historical research in libraries, special collections, and on the Internet related both to the exhibition program and to the collections. Provide updated information for curatorial files and TMS.

Write and edit acquisition justifications, exhibition labels, and other exhibition and permanent collection texts. Format labels and coordinate the editing process.

Work with Education, Development and Engagement staff to produce materials to promote, publicize, and interpret exhibitions and public programs.

Receive catalogue texts from essayists, directors, curators, and other involved parties. Review catalogue texts for accuracy and consistency. Work with Exhibitions and Publications Manager and curators on other aspects of catalogues.

Acquire information from artists and galleries for the purposes of exhibitions, acquisitions, and publications.

Review exhibition contracts and drafts, providing comments and suggestions regarding terms affecting the curatorial department.

Provide up-to-date, correct exhibition information to the exhibition coordinator and curators.

Research objects with Nazi-Era provenance issues in the permanent collection (and proposed acquisitions). Post objects on NEPIP and Art Loss Register. Coordinate with the Assistant Registrar to post relevant works on eMuseum site.

Curate/co-curate permanent collection exhibitions/installations as needed.

Ensure accuracy of information issued in publications and on the website.

Work with Registrars and Business Manager to manage list of works in permanent collection needing conservation.

Present lectures and tours of exhibitions as necessary.

Present exhibitions and acquisitions at Board of Advisors meetings.

Oversee (with support from Curatorial Assistant) exhibition and other phone and email inquiries related to artwork, exhibitions, and policies, and respond accordingly.

Coordinate and supervise the work of designated employees, interns, and students, reviewing completed work for adherence to instructions and correctness.

Prepare and manage exhibition and non-exhibition budgets with the curatorial department and collections management team.

Education/Training:

Work requires a Master’s degree in art history and three to four years related museum experience.

Experience Required:

Work requires two to three years related museum office or art administrative experience to become familiar with museum practices and the coordination of exhibitions. The position requires a strong orientation toward collaborative work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, and the ability to work both autonomously and collectively as needed. Foreign language helpful.

TO APPLY: Please send letter of interest, resume and contact information for three references to: Assistant Curator Search Committee, Nasher Museum of Art, Box 90732, Durham, NC 27708, or email those to: nikki.gaskin@duke.edu Candidates also need to apply hr.duke.edu/jobs/apply/ (req# 400871372)