Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art

The University of Texas at Austin•Austin, UT

3d•$100,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin is known for its bold vision, from a dynamic reinstallation of the collection galleries in 2017, to the opening of Ellsworth Kelly’s monumental work of art, Austin, in 2018, and redesign of its grounds by Snøhetta in 2023, and the exhibitions and educational programs that define the museum’s role in the community. There is even more to come for the Blanton and the thousands of school and university students and visitors we serve. With a proven track record as a museum that is deeply relevant, and where education is embedded into everything we do, we have put The University of Texas at Austin, and the city of Austin, on the forefront of the visual arts. Benefits eligible Blanton Museum of Art staff enjoy the same competitive benefits, programs and services available to the University of Texas at Austin employees. Blanton staff also have access to complimentary admission to the museum, selected museum events, and a 20% discount at the Museum Store. The Blanton is home to a vast array of roles matching a wide range of interests and talents. No matter the staff position at the Blanton, all contribute to the preservation of culture and history for the entire community. We invite you to view and apply for this professional opportunity. The Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art leads one of the Blanton Museum's key curatorial areas and is an important part of the senior management team, reporting to the Chief Curator and Deputy Director of Collections. The position will oversee research, exhibitions, collecting strategy, and rotating gallery displays in all areas of international and American modern and contemporary art (excluding Latin American art). Work closely with a small, collaborative team, and especially with the curators of Latin American Art and of Prints and Drawings, areas which have significant overlap. The Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art advances the Blanton’s mission by shaping a dynamic program of exhibitions, installations, and commissions drawn from the collection, loans, and new work. This role builds and sustains relationships with artists, scholars, and institutions nationally and internationally, while fostering collaboration across the museum and university. The curator leads research, interpretation, and public engagement initiatives that deepen understanding of modern and contemporary art and expand its impact. Working closely with colleagues, the curator contributes to collection development, fundraising, and strategic planning in support of the museum’s long-term goals.

Requirements

Master’s degree in art history or related field, or a bachelor’s degree with equivalent professional experience.
At least seven years of museum experience with a strong record of publications, public presentations, and active participation in the national or international art community.
Deep knowledge of American and international modern and contemporary art.
Demonstrated excellence in scholarship, writing, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Proven ability to manage budgets and experience in fundraising, including cultivating donors and securing grants from foundation and government sources.
Strong professional relationships across the field, including artists, collectors, gallerists, writers, scholars, and museum colleagues.
Collaborative and collegial approach, with the ability to work effectively across departments to advance institutional goals.
Demonstrated integrity and professional judgment in all areas of work.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, from students and the public to scholars and specialists.
Equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. in art history or a closely related discipline
Specialized expertise in a particular area of modern or contemporary art
Successful record of acquiring works through gifts or purchases
Knowledge of museum collection management systems and digital collections initiatives

Responsibilities

Organize exhibitions and installations using collection objects, loans, and commissions.
Lead development of exhibition concepts, tours, and co-produced projects in collaboration with curatorial colleagues and external partners.
Define and implement a vision for the modern and contemporary art collection.
Recommend and secure acquisitions and collaborate with collections staff on conservation strategies.
Build relationships with artists and national/international institutions.
Solicit and secure loans and externally generated exhibitions and represent the museum in collaborative initiatives that advance its mission.
Develop interpretive strategies and materials.
Partner with Education and Academic Affairs to create programs, train docents and gallery assistants, and support public engagement with modern and contemporary art.
Conduct original research on the collection and contribute to exhibitions, programs, and publications.
Supervise guest curators, visiting scholars, interns, and student researchers.
Promote use of the collection in teaching and engage with the academic community.
Support fundraising efforts, including donor cultivation and proposals, and manage related budgets, records, and intern supervision.
Other related functions as assigned.