Assistant Curator jobs in the United States

Assistant Curator (Regular, Full-Time)

European Painting and Sculpture

LACMA’s exhibitions and acquisitions programs are a key part of its mission to serve the public through the collection, conservation, exhibition and interpretation of significant works of art from a broad range of cultures and historical periods. Committed to showcasing a multitude of art histories, the museum exhibits and interprets works of art from new and unexpected points of view that are informed by the region’s rich cultural heritage and diverse population. A spirit of experimentation is reflected in our work with artists, technologists, and thought leaders as well as in our many regional, national, and global partnerships to share collections and programs, create pioneering initiatives, and engage new audiences. LACMA’s staff is committed to the museum’s mission of inclusive access, collaboration, and dialogue, and to working closely with colleagues across the museum and our many communities beyond, fostering creativity, connection, and diverse thinking. 

Reporting to the Curator and Department Head of European Painting and Sculpture and American Art, the Assistant Curator will have particular areas of focus in 14th–18th century Southern European (Italian, Spanish) painting and sculpture. They will have a demonstrated interest in expanding the narratives around European art, with a broad intellectual curiosity and a strong interest in connecting time periods, cultures, etc. in an encyclopedic museum context. The candidate will also be a dynamic professional who has proven themselves as an effective advocate for their area of expertise through some or all of the following ways: innovative research and interpretation; development of public or private collections; commitment to broad and inclusive audience engagement through exhibitions, installations, scholarly lectures, public presentations, and community partnerships. 

Responsibilities:

• Reporting to the Curator and Department Head of European Painting and Sculpture and American Art, the Assistant Curator will be deeply committed to LACMA's mission of inclusive access, collaboration, and dialogue, and will be encouraged to work with colleagues across LACMA's departments
• Provide collaborative support for permanent collection installations for the new Geffen Galleries currently under construction, including preparing content for Collections Online
• Supports large scale exhibition projects under the guidance of Senior Curatorial staff, and executes all aspects of small-scale permanent collection rotations including but not limited to research, topic determination, object selection, developing layout, didactics, and overseeing installation
• Perform advanced scholarly research of a high order, making important contributions to the field through exhibitions and publications
• Maintain contact with collectors, galleries and other facets of the art market, in an effort to grow the collection through gifts and acquisitions     
• Assists department on administrative duties including object inquiries, collection research, and maintenance of object files

Benefits:

• The expected annual salary for this Los Angeles, CA based position is $67,000.00 to $72,000.00 subject to change, and the position is eligible for LACMA’s comprehensive benefits package, including pension plan.
• LACMA is committed to providing its employees with valuable and competitive benefits as a core part of a strong overall employee experience. 

Qualifications:

• MA, ABD, or PhD in Art History or related field preferred
• Minimum 3 years curatorial experience with particular areas of focus in 14th–18th century Southern European (Italian, Spanish) painting and sculpture
• Proven success in working collaboratively
• Broad intellectual curiosity and a strong record in connecting time periods, cultures, etc applicable to an encyclopedic museum context
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills are required, including the ability to address academic audiences and the general public with equal skill and passion

Please include a CV, a cover letter, writing sample and list of three references as well as a statement, not to exceed 1,000 words, describing the applicant’s exhibition and research interests.

Application Deadline:  Oct 15, 2024