Status: Part-time
Reports to: Senior Curator and Curatorial Associate
Start Date: May 1, 2018

Position Summary:

The Preparator interfaces with all technical aspects of art handling with regard to
installation and de-installation, art transport, packing/shipping, and storage of art objects
under the direction of the Senior Curator, Curatorial Associate, and Registrar. He/she
assists with the maintenance of art storage, framing room, and routine maintenance of
Museum galleries. He/she plays an integral role in exhibition installation, preparing works
of art for hanging, de-installing and returning or storing works of art, and preparing the
galleries for new shows.

Essential Functions:

  • Assists in all aspects of changing gallery space including patching and painting walls, building structures/mounts, and installing/deinstalling artwork.
  • Completes all preparatory tasks for installing artwork including framing and unframing and sometimes matting.
  • Assists Registrar and Curatorial Associate to pack and unpack artwork on loan.
  • Transports artwork locally.
  • Assists with maintaining the appearance of exhibition space including changing light bulbs, dusting, cleaning plexi, paint touch-up, and care and cleaning of other exhibition furniture.
  • Assists with installing and attaching vinyl, wall text panels, and labels
  • Assists Registrar with maintenance of art storage including rehousing artworks, moving large artworks, and moving art from storage to galleries.
  • Abides by all Museum policies and procedures
  • Performs required administrative tasks in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Works with other Museum staff to ensure smooth operation of the Museum’s daily program and events. Represents the Museum with the highest level of integrity and enthusiasm and works positively with colleagues and the public.

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Well organized, resourceful, and results-oriented
  • A good problem-solver
  • Knowledge of art handling practices and procedures
  • Experience using power tools, ladders, and other large equipment
  • Basic math skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to follow directions and work in a supportive role
  • Excellent time-management, planning, and teamwork skills
  • Works well under pressure

Required Education and Experience:

  • B.A. or B.F.A. in studio art, art history, or a related field
  • A minimum of 2 years’ experience as a preparator in a gallery or museum
  • Valid drivers license

Preferred Skills and Experience:

  • Knowledge of museum standards for collection care, packing, crating, handling, installing, and housing artworks
  • Knowledge of loss-prevention techniques
  • Design skills are a plus
  • Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Illustrator, In-Design, Photoshop and ability to learn local Collection Management Software

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

  • Work may be performed both indoors and outdoors throughout the campus as well as off-site locations
  • Position may require standing for prolonged periods, walking, climbing, bending and stretching, and enough physical strength to lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds unassisted
  • Ability to climb ladders etc. in excess of 8 feet

 

This is a part-time position requiring availability during normal business hours and occasional nights and weekends, when needed.

 

To Apply:

Please include a cover letter, current résumé, and three references. No phone calls please. All requests should be emailed to: jobs@newportartmuseum.org, with “Preparator” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 
The Newport Art Museum is an equal opportunity employer.

The Newport Art Museum & Art Association, established in 1912, educates and inspires a diverse audience by collecting, preserving, exhibiting and interpreting historic and contemporary visual arts of the highest quality with an emphasis on the rich heritage of the Newport region, and integrates appreciation for the arts and art-making into all its programs. The Museum is fully accredited by the American Association of Museums.