Curator-Fruitlands Museum [The Trustees, Harvard, MA]

The Trustees of Reservations’ curatorial resources include archives, buildings, landscapes, ruins and artifacts covering hundreds of years of human history.  In the historic houses, at the Archives & Research Center, and in the land itself, The Trustees preserves the landscapes and material culture of Massachusetts people. With its important collection of Hudson River landscape paintings and early American portraiture, along with a diverse compilation of Shaker materials, Transcendentalist personal artifacts, and Native American materials, the overall Fruitlands Museum collection represents an intact collection amassed by Clara Endicott Sears (1863-1960) in the early 20th century. The site sits atop a remarkable prospect across vast acres of conservation land, providing important opportunities to share and celebrate connections between the fine arts collection, historical collections, and the landscape. We are seeking a Curator with a breath of experience including extensive Fine Arts and Decorative Arts experience to work with this dynamic collection.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a Curator to join the organization’s curatorial team in the study and care of the collections at the Fruitlands Museum, our 116th property, which includes renowned folk and landscape paintings collections. This Curator will provide collections care, access and maintenance while providing on-site leadership and implementation for its creative, intellectual and programmatic direction.  The Curator will assist with fund-raising activities and grant writing to support the collection and the Museum’s growth and promotion.  Changing exhibits have played an important role in highlighting permanent collections, serving as outreach to contemporary and/or local artists and lending institutions, and, in the future, will additionally highlight other aspects of The Trustees collection. This Curator will work with the department’s team and the General Manager for Fruitlands Museum to create a dynamic exhibition program.

Essential Functions:

• Manages the focus, growth and management of the permanent collection in collaboration with the Senior Curator.
• Supports the planning, implementation and evaluation of care, security, access and management policies for the Museum’s collections, and historic building interiors.
• Collaborates with the Senior Curator, the General Manager, the Engagement Manager and other colleagues in the development of a balanced and dynamic exhibition program in the gallery and on the grounds.
• Assists with the cultivation of collectors, donors and artists.
• Manages the presentation and new interpretations of the collection, in collaboration with engagement and education staff, Senior Curator and key stakeholders.
• Collaborates in the preparation of interpretive materials for new exhibitions, brochure texts and catalogues, as well as content for marketing, development, grant writing and fundraising activities.
• Provides programming support (lectures, workshops, etc.), as required.
• Supervises the implementation of The Trustees mission and strategic plan goals in the museum operations including exhibits, collection oversight and managed focus of the collection.
• Assists with the development of productive partnerships and collaborations with other museum’s and organizations to maximize Fruitlands Museum’s and The Trustees’ relevancy and awareness. Helps to foster partnerships with artists and other non-profits.
• Supervises volunteers, fellows, and project personnel as needed. With the guidance of the Senior Curator, helps oversee a thorough inventory of the collection.
• Working with other Curators, helps to further the understanding of our fine arts collections across the state, through scholarship, exhibit loans, and promotion.