The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AMFA), located in Little Rock, Arkansas, seeks an Associate Curator or Curator to join the staff during an extraordinary moment that includes the recent re-opening of a new state-of-the-art facility. Designed by the renowned architecture firm, Studio Gang, the facility secures the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts’s position as one of the top cultural institutions in the state and region. The new AMFA features state-of-the-art galleries, Windgate Art School, theatre, lecture hall, outdoor event area, and other spaces to host programming, classes, and performances. The innovative Cultural Living Room, restaurant, store, and landscaped grounds position AMFA as a dynamic cultural hub for Little Rock and the Delta region.
The Associate Curator or Curator is responsible for forwarding the institution through the research, development, and implementation of engaging and innovative special exhibitions, artist-based projects and initiatives, research and publications, and the presentation of AMFA’s collection of more than 14,000 works of art. Reporting to the Chief Curator, the Associate Curator or Curator will work closely with the Executive Director, Curatorial, and Community Engagement staff, and statewide partners to ensure the presentation of art reflects and is relevant to the community and inspires thoughtful conversation and engagement with the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
Primary Duties and responsibilities:
Develops new and engaging ways to showcase art and artists through exhibitions, artist installations, art-based community collaborations, and initiatives that broaden the public’s understanding of art and artists;
Collaborates with internal and external colleagues to develop and implement curatorial projects that reflect AMFA’s mission of diversity, equity, inclusivity, and accessibility;
With the Chief Curator and Curatorial team, develops new strategies for working with artists and presenting and interpreting art in AMFA’s galleries and non-gallery spaces, including on the surrounding campus, in the local and regional community, and across the state;
Researches and presents thoughtful and scholarly opportunities that inspire visitors and the public to learn about and enjoy art; possesses demonstrated experience in critical writing or scholarly publications
Recommends new acquisitions for the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts’s collection;
Is cognizant of and adheres to best practices of the profession; identifies and researches significant trends, issues, and opportunities in the visual arts;
Represents and participates in professional development opportunities, such as attending conferences and webinars; possesses an established network of museum and art world colleagues;
Is exceptional and trusted in establishing and fostering strong, credible and long-term relationships with our artists, colleagues, donors, Board members, staff, volunteers and other stakeholders;
Assists with inquiries by scholars, researchers, and professors; supports the functions of the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts’s Terri and Chuck Erwin Collection Research Center;
Manages budgets and meets deadlines; performs other duties as assigned.
CANDIDATE PROFILE:
Collaborative, credible partner who builds and fosters strong, trusted relationships across all levels, internally and externally;
Innovative thinker who is able to balance practical and effective strategies and approaches to meaningfully engage AMFA’s guests, the community, and public;
Curious, open-minded learner who stays up to date on museum trends and best practices that engage audiences through art and artists;
Flexible, agile, and supportive staff member who embraces diverse points of view and creative problem solving to achieve the institution’s mission and goals;
Effective communicator with exceptional public speaking and writing skills;
5+ years of curatorial experience in a museum or gallery setting, preferably focused on contemporary art;
Master’s degree required; Ph.D. in Art History or directly related field preferred.
To apply, please submit your resume to personnel@arkmfa.org
Categories: Job Postings