Purpose
The Curatorial Assistant is responsible for assisting with all facets of general department work and on upcoming publications and exhibitions. The Curatorial Assistant will focus primarily on an upcoming exhibition on spirituality in contemporary art that will open in 2017. The exhibition spans the 1980’s to the present, and includes approximately 80 works of art in all media from around the world. The incumbent will also be involved in departmental research projects and research projects related to the permanent collection and ongoing acquisitions.

 

This position is designed to last approximately three years.

 

Accountabilities

 

Project Research
To assist in research for, and the organization of upcoming special exhibitions and publications. As the projects evolve, the incumbent will assist with bibliographies, chronologies, exhibition histories, provenance research, and related work. Will manage an Access database for exhibition which tracks all aspects of exhibitions.

 

Imaging
To assist with acquiring catalogue illustrations (key images as well as comparative illustrations) and maintaining proper copyright and credit line information. The Curatorial Assistant will serve as key liaison between curatorial staff and imaging services, both within and outside the Nelson-Atkins.

 

Project Management Assistance
To assist with duties related to the project management of the exhibition, such as checklists, loan letters, contracts with catalogue authors, coordination across Museum departments (including Design, Education, Preparation, Marketing and Registration) as well as correspondence and didactic tracking.

 

Recordkeeping and File Maintenance
Organize and maintain established exhibition files. Take, prepare and distribute meeting notes.

 

General Research
To assist curator with a variety of research requests, as they arise. Will be expected to work independently.

 

Position Requirements

 

  • Highly proficient in Microsoft office, especially Excel, Word and Outlook.
  • Experience with databases, including Microsoft Access, desired
  • Must have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Art History or related field, or be pursuing a Master of Arts in Art History.
  • Must be well organized and detail oriented.
  • Highly efficient and effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and practice good time management is critical.
  • Must be able to interact with Museum staff members and other contacts in a polite and courteous manner.
  • Must be flexible and cool under pressure.
  • Ability to converse with relevant museum personnel from other institutions in a courteous and professional manner.

 

Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is occasionally required to stand, walk sit use hands, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel. Extended periods of time using a computer is also required.