Exhibit Curator [Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts, Cedarburg, WI]

The Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts, located just east of historic downtown Cedarburg, Wisconsin, is dedicated to historic preservation and educating the public about the artistic, cultural, historic, and social importance of quilts and fibers arts.

WMQFA seeks a part-time Exhibit Curator. This position is grant-funded. The Exhibit Curator is responsible for coordinating the conception, development, and organization of the museum’s exhibitions. The Curator also designs the layout of exhibits and oversees their installation. He/she also selects items to be displayed in the museum and arranges the loan of collections for exhibitions.

Essential Functions

• Work closely with the Exhibition Advisory Committee to develop and implement a cohesive vision, strategy, and schedule for exhibitions at the museum;

• Research content, develop concepts and interactive elements, conduct audience evaluation, design exhibit and graphic elements, prepare objects and images;

• Research and write interpretive panels and labels;

• Coordinate exhibition volunteers to assist with installation and de-installation of exhibitions;

• Identify artworks appropriate for exhibition and negotiate with artists and lending institutions to secure artworks for exhibition;

• Coordinate with other museum staff and volunteers to ensure education programs, exhibitions, collections, fundraising, and marketing efforts are collaborative and cohesive;

• Prepare and monitor exhibition budgets and expenses;

• Prepare and update docent training materials for all exhibitions;

• Other duties as assigned.

15 hours per week. Flexible schedule. This is a limited term, grant-funded position and does not include benefits. The Exhibit Curator reports to the Executive Director.

Submit cover letter, resume, and three references by October 31, 2015. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. 

Candidates should hold a Master’s degree in Museum Studies or related field or commensurate experience working with museum-based collections. Bachelor’s degree required. Candidates should have demonstrated attention to detail, the ability to work independently, be skilled at prioritizing multiple tasks to meet deadlines, and prior experience working with museum exhibitions. Experience working with textiles is preferred. A working knowledge of Microsoft Office is necessary, as well as comfort learning new software programs. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds, climb ladders, and operate handheld tools. The successful candidate will also have exceptional customer service skills.