Nancy E. Meinig Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art [Philbrook Museum of Art]

Nancy E. Meinig Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art

Philbrook Museum of Art, Tulsa

Job Description:

Philbrook Museum of Art seeks an experienced museum professional to serve as Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art. This is an endowed position.

Reporting to the Chief Curator, responsibilities include the interpretation, installation, research, and further development of the Museum’s modern and contemporary art collection. The successful candidate is also expected to work with Philbrook’s substantial organizational resources to create a consistent and engaging presentation of leading-edge programming.

The Meinig curator will be expected to accomplish:

1. Ambitious special exhibitions highlighting important late twentieth and early twenty-first century work in conventional and new media.
2. Programming that boldly engages a broad audience by focusing on quality and inclusivity, striving to present artists of diverse influences, ethnicities, and genders.
3. The cultivation of collectors, patrons and artists who will help to build the collection as well as the reputation of the Museum as a thoughtful collector and lively presenter of contemporary art. This includes overseeing Contemporary Consortium, a collector’s affinity group focused upon contemporary art programming and acquisitions.

Job Requirements:

The successful candidate will possess a history of scholarly achievement, exhibition development, and a commitment to making the Museum’s collection accessible to a diverse audience. S/he must also have a strong aptitude for teamwork, at least three years of curatorial experience, evidence of progressive achievement, and a MA in art history (Ph.D. preferred). An ability to handle multiple tasks at once and exceptional oral and written communication skills are essential.

About Philbrook Museum of Art:

Philbrook is a premier cultural institution in the city of Tulsa, a state-wide leader in the cultural life of Oklahoma. It is distinguished by nationally acclaimed collections, facilities, gardens, and exhibitions, as well as innovative educational programming. In 2013, Philbrook earned national recognition as a “Magnetic Museum” in a three-year independent study in partnership with American Alliance of Museums (AAM) http://philbrook.org/about/press-releases/national-study-recognizes-philbrook. Set within a twenty-three acre site three miles from downtown Tulsa, Philbrook is a unique combination of historic house and modern museum complex, major gardens and exquisite permanent collections.

The Museum enjoys strong support from every level of the community as evidenced by strong, growing attendance and financial stability that derives from long-standing generosity and good stewardship.

The Museum’s permanent collection is comprised of over 11,000 works of art and offers visitors a broad view of the major art movements in both western and non-western cultural traditions.   Prior to 2004, the contemporary collection emphasized realism and craft. While such holdings still hold an important place in the collection, the last decade has brought a pronounced shift in emphasis toward great prioritization of contemporary art and artists engaged in innovative, diverse and global issues. The 2013 opening of Philbrook Downtown in the heart of Tulsa’s thriving Brady Arts District has deepened Philbrook’s strong commitment to, and engagement with, contemporary art and issues.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of three references to Maurine Perry at mperry@philbrook.org. No phone calls, please. Salary: open.

The successful candidate will possess a history of scholarly achievement, exhibition development, and a commitment to making the Museum’s collection accessible to a diverse audience. S/he must also have a strong aptitude for teamwork, at least three years of curatorial experience, evidence of progressive achievement, and a MA in art history (Ph.D. preferred). An ability to handle multiple tasks at once and exceptional oral and written communication skills are essential.