The Art of the Americas Department at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston is currently seeking a Curatorial Research Associate to fill a two-year term position. This individual will perform diversified responsibilities relating to the administrative and research functions of the department, as determined by the field of study or discrete project. Two projects currently under way in the department are the Jamie Wyeth retrospective and the Axelrod publication for African American art. Special consideration will be given for candidates with expertise in either of these areas.
Essential Functions:
• Assist with the preparation of exhibitions and gallery installations – select objects, undertake research for labels and installation, write articles and portions of exhibition catalogues, undertake research on collections as well as on art objects belonging to private collectors. Work with Public Relations, Facilities, Exhibition and Design Departments on the installations of objects, as requested. May participate in projects organized by the Education staff (lectures, etc.). Perform duties related to physical care and documentation of collection. Obtain and put away art objects for exhibitions and/or visitors. Receive new objects, identify and label for registration, catalog and place in storage.
• Assist visitors coming to the department – answer questions and assist with identification of objects brought for examination. Answer letters and telephone calls from colleagues, scholars, students, collectors, general public, and other departments requesting information about field of specialty, and/or refer to experts in the field. May visit dealers and assist in preparing recommendations for acquisitions.
• Assist Chair or senior curatorial staff with exhibitions and research as requested. Make proposals regarding objects that require conservation. Work closely with Photography staff proposing objects that need new photography. Work closely with Collections Management staff on issues related to housing and documentation of collection. Work with Development on grant writing for exhibitions and collection projects.
• Secure books and periodicals for use by the staff, either by requesting purchases or borrowing from the Library.
• As requested and approved, lecture on the collection, travel, attend conferences, seminars; visit other Museums, maintain professional affiliations in appropriate organizations.
A Master’s degree and/or work towards a doctoral degree are highly desirable, as well as several years experience in a museum setting.
Status: Full-Time
Posted: 12/14/12