Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Assistant Curator (Regular Full-Time)Decorative Arts and DesignLACMA's exhibitions and acquisitions programs are a key part of its mission to serve the public through the collection, conservation, exhibition and interpretation of significant works of art from a broad range of cultures and historical periods. Committed to showcasing a multitude of art histories, the museum exhibits and interprets works of art from new and unexpected points of view that are informed by the region's rich cultural heritage and diverse population. A spirit of experimentation is reflected in our work with artists, technologists, and thought leaders as well as in our many regional, national, and global partnerships to share collections and programs, create pioneering initiatives, and engage new audiences. LACMA's staff is committed to the museum's mission of inclusive access, collaboration, and dialogue, and to working closely with colleagues across the museum and our many communities beyond, fostering creativity, connection, and diverse thinking. Reporting to the Curator and Department Head of Decorative Arts and Design, the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Assistant Curator will focus on European decorative arts before 1850, and will support curatorial work including acquisitions, exhibitions publications, collections management, and donor cultivation. Knowledge of early American decorative arts would also be a great asset. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated interest in expanding narratives around the decorative arts, with a broad intellectual curiosity and a strong interest in connecting time periods and cultures in the context of an encyclopedic museum. The candidate will also be a dynamic professional who has experience in some or all of the following areas: innovative research and interpretation; development of public or private collections; commitment to broad and inclusive audience engagement through exhibitions, installations, scholarly lectures, public presentations, and community partnerships. Responsibilities:
- Provide collaborative support for permanent collection installations for the Geffen Galleries - a new building to display and imaginatively reinterpret LACMA's permanent collections. Participate in ongoing rotations including collection research, object selection, layout development, and installation. Prepare interpretive content for Collections Online and other formats.
- Foster and contribute to LACMA's ambitious exhibition program, including providing support for large-scale exhibition projects under the guidance of Senior Curatorial staff.
- Conduct collection-focused research for proposed acquisitions and supports these acquisitions with presentations and written justifications.
- Co-author or contribute essays for museum catalogues and other publications.
- Work collaboratively to cultivate new donors and steward existing ones; continue existing relationships with collectors and galleries. Provide support for grant applications.
- Participate in Decorative Arts and Design Acquisitions Committee (DA2), Decorative Arts and Design Council (DADC) and other departmental donor/supporter events.
- Assist with administrative duties including object inquiries, collection research, and maintenance of object files.
- Performs other duties or special projects as assigned.
Benefits:
- The expected salary for this Los Angeles-based position is $68,000.00 - $72,000.00 subject to change, and the position is eligible for LACMA's comprehensive benefits package, including a pension plan.
- LACMA is committed to providing its employees with valuable and competitive benefits as a core part of a strong overall employee experience.
Qualifications:
- At least 2 years curatorial experience, MA required
- Proven success in working collaboratively
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills are required, including the ability to address academic audiences and the general public with equal skill and passion.
- Expertise in European Decorative Arts to support the care and presentation of LACMA's collections from the medieval period to the mid-nineteenth century. Knowledge about the history of silver is especially desirable, as is an interest in early American decorative arts.
- Knowledge of a foreign language is an asset.
Please include a cover letter, writing sample, and a list of three references with your application. Applications without cover letters will not be reviewed.Application deadline August 20, 2024