Seasonal Studio Guide – Part-time

Norman Rockwell Museum at Stockbridge • Stockbridge, MA

just now

About The Position

Seasonal May/June through October
Reports to: Chief Learning and Engagement Officer

The Organization
The Norman Rockwell Museum illuminates the power of American illustration art to reflect and shape society, and advances the enduring values of kindness, respect, and social equity portrayed by Norman Rockwell.
As a center devoted to the art of illustration, the Museum also exhibits the works of contemporary and past masters in an ongoing series of compelling artist showcases. Set on a picturesque 36-acre estate in the hometown of America’s favorite artist, the Norman Rockwell Museum is one of the crown jewels of the Berkshires.
NRM embraces the values of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion to create a successful workplace and a more equitable society. Our mission embodies these values. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of identities, experiences, backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the more successful the organization, its employees, and our work in the world will be. Norman Rockwell Museum is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to equity and inclusion. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Norman Rockwell Museum is a drug-free workplace.

The Position
Join our team of dedicated educators during the busy summer and fall season at Norman Rockwell Museum. You will be part of the team responsible for welcoming and introducing visitors to Norman Rockwell’s Studio.
The Studio was Norman Rockwell’s last artist studio. He worked there from 1957 to the end of his life in 1978. It was originally located in downtown Stockbridge and was moved to its current location in 1986. The Studio contains the tools of Rockwell’s painting practice including his easel, brushes and paints along with reproductions of artworks he made and other personal objects he collected over the course of his life. The Studio and its contents are part of the collection of the Museum.
From May through October the Studio is open for guided visits led by NRM educators. During the short tour (20 – 30 minutes), visitors learn about Rockwell’s artistic process and inspirations, his work of the 1960s when he turned his attention to social justice themes, and what Rockwell’s daily life in Stockbridge was like. Last year more than 9,000 visitors experienced Rockwell’s Studio on a guided visit with a NRM educator.
We are looking for articulate and motivated people who are willing to make a commitment to the Museum and to share their enthusiasm for art in a serious and thoughtful way. Expertise in museum education and in modern or American art history is a plus, but not a prerequisite. NRM Museum Guides come from a range of backgrounds. Current Guides include working professionals, retirees, artists, and more. Studio Guides are asked to commit to two daily shifts per week from May/June to the end of October.

Requirements

• Computer Literacy and Technology Skills
• All positions at NRM require some use of technology and staff are expected to be comfortable within an information technology environment. Knowledge and skills for basic use of computer hardware, software, email, calendars, and the Internet enhances efficiency, workflow and overall experience within the workplace.
• A commitment to lifelong learning
• Public speaking experience
• Knowledge or interest in learning about, illustration art and Norman Rockwell
• A commitment to high-quality visitor service in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility and the ability to think on your feet
• Open to feedback and evaluation
• Cultural sensitivity
• Full day availability on a weekly basis during peak season (June through October), including weekends

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in museum education and in modern or American art history is a plus, but not a prerequisite.
• We are looking especially for candidates who can teach in both Spanish and English, but it is not a requirement

Responsibilities

• Lead tours of Norman Rockwell’s Studio.
• Develop tours based on training sessions and materials provided by the museum and on further independent research.
• Provide guided learning experiences for visitors to increase awareness and understanding of Rockwell’s work, and to foster connections between our visitors and the art on view.
• Execute daily logistical operations and follow mandated security procedures.
• Attend training sessions and curator-led walkthroughs of exhibitions. Build knowledge of Norman Rockwell’s life, artistic process, and artwork.
• Incorporate feedback from NRM staff and ongoing tour evaluations to ensure high-quality visitor engagement and accurate and compelling learning experiences
• Welcome visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities and create a sense of belonging through consistently gracious and professional interactions
• Communicate consistently, reliably, and effectively with NRM staff about scheduling, availability, challenges, and insights
• Work effectively with colleagues across all group identities and positions/roles

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed