Art Preparator I
About The Position
The Chrysler Museum of Art, located at 1 Memorial Place in Norfolk, VA, is renowned for its extensive collection of over 30,000 objects displayed across 50 galleries. The Museum offers a diverse range of art, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. A standout feature is its Glass Studio, the only one of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic, where visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and participate in hands-on classes. The Museum's commitment to accessibility is highlighted by its free admission policy, making it a welcoming destination for both art enthusiasts and families. Art Preparator I will collaborate with Registration, Exhibitions, and Curatorial teams to install exhibitions, handle and transport artwork, manage storage, conduct condition assessments, and support conservation efforts. They ensure proper mounting, lighting, and environmental controls while maintaining museum standards for preservation and security.
Requirements
- High School or equivalent education.
- Must have at least 1 year of experience in art handling and/or exhibitions installation.
- Must be meticulous and able to work as part of a team to accomplish challenging tasks.
Nice To Haves
- BA/BS; background in Museum studies, fine arts, art handling, or a related field is preferred.
- Prior Museum experience is strongly preferred.
- Carpentry experience.
- Audio Visual technology experience.
- Matting and framing experience.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with Registration, Exhibitions, and Curatorial teams to install exhibitions, handle and transport artwork, manage storage, conduct condition assessments, and support conservation efforts.
- Ensure proper mounting, lighting, and environmental controls while maintaining museum standards for preservation and security.
- Prepare artwork for display (e.g. matting, framing, mounting, glazing, installation of hardware.)
- Install and de-install temporary and permanent exhibitions.
- Participate in all phases of art movement within the museum for works in the collection, loans, and incoming and outgoing exhibitions.
- Assist with the preparation of labels and text panels.
- Maintain exhibition and gallery lighting.
- Provide technical support for all exhibitions (e.g. setting up and managing audio-visual equipment, and preparation of temporary walls and exhibition furniture, etc.)
- Maintain organized, secure, and accessible storage spaces for artworks and exhibition materials.
- Review and interpret condition reports to monitor artwork status and preservation requirements.
- Ensure proper handling based on documented information and maintain awareness of collection care protocols.
- Recognize potential condition issues and notify Registrars or conservators as needed, ensuring proper handling and care of artworks.
- Adhere to conservation-approved handling methods, safety regulations, and environmental controls.
- Complete installations, deinstallations, and preparation tasks within designated deadlines.
- Prepare artwork for travel (e.g. lining crates, soft packing, etc.).
- Provide transport as necessary.
- Assist with care of the museum’s collection and collection storage areas.
- Work closely with Curatorial, Registration, Conservation, and Exhibition teams to execute projects seamlessly.
- Address unforeseen installation challenges and adjust displays as needed.
- Support colleagues and foster a cooperative, efficient work environment.
- Serve as an ambassador for the Museum locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
- Perform other duties as assigned or required.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
