Associate Curator of Art

National Museum of Wildlife Art•Jackson, WY

9h•Onsite

About The Position

The National Museum of Wildlife Art (NMWA) is seeking an Associate Curator of Art to join their team. This role involves conducting scholarly research on the museum's collection and potential acquisitions, evaluating and recommending acquisitions, and researching artworks to establish dates and provenance. The Associate Curator will collaborate with museum educators on public interpretation of the collection and support relationships with collectors, donors, and art dealers. In terms of exhibitions, the position assists in development and execution, independently curates selected exhibits, and contributes to exhibition materials like interpretive texts and catalogues. The role also involves training docents and staff, presenting lectures and gallery talks, and collaborating on educational programs, outreach, and publicity. Additional duties include managing the Bull-Bransom Award, overseeing the curatorial intern program, responding to curatorial inquiries, participating in fundraising, and contributing content to publications. The position requires a commitment to the museum's mission, vision, and values.

Requirements

Advanced degree in Art History or a related field with a specialization directly related to the Museum’s permanent collection (PhD strongly preferred).
3 - 5 years demonstrated experience in a curatorial role, with a clear record of developing engaging exhibitions and producing scholarly publications.
Exceptional communication, writing, and public speaking skills.
Thorough knowledge of current best practices for museums as well as emerging trends in the field.
Familiarity with collections management software, especially TMS.
Ability to stand, sit, reach, and kneel throughout the workday.
Ability to work at a computer for up to 8 hours daily.
Ability to lift up to 15 lbs.
Ability to communicate via phone for extended periods.
Valid driver's license and ability to operate a car.

Nice To Haves

PhD strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Conduct and publish original scholarly research on the collection and prospective acquisitions.
Evaluate and recommend strategic acquisitions that strengthen and diversify the collection, including gifts and purchases, in consultation with the Chief Curator of Art and the Executive Director.
Carry out additional research on the collection to estimate dates and establish provenance of artworks.
Collaborate with museum educators and Chief Curator of Art on the interpretation of the collection to the public, docents, and volunteers.
Support Museum efforts to cultivate strong relationships with collectors, donors, and art dealers.
Assist in the development and execution of special exhibitions.
Independently curate and manage selected exhibits on a regular basis.
Contribute to the writing and creation of exhibition materials such as interpretive texts, catalogues, and interactives.
Aid in docent and staff training related to special exhibits and the permanent collection.
Present lectures, gallery talks, and educational programming for both general and specialized audiences.
Work collaboratively with other museum staff on educational programs, outreach, and publicity.
Manage the annual Bull-Bransom Award for excellence in children’s illustration.
Manage the curatorial intern program, including overseeing the selection process, supervision, outline of projects, and workflow organization.
Respond to inquiries made to the curatorial department about artists and works of art in the collection.
Participate in fundraising and cultivation efforts as needed.
Contribute content to institutional publications in print and digital platforms.