GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Chief Curator, Susan Donnell and Harry W. Konkel Curator of European Art, the Associate Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art plays an integral role in the Portland Museum of Art (PMA’s) Art and Exhibitions team, working closely with colleagues and artists to conduct research, plan installations, organize exhibition projects, develop interpretive materials, recommend acquisitions, and to advance the PMA’s mission.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Conceives and develops exhibitions and gallery installations that will enhance the public’s understanding of modern and contemporary art and the museum’s collections. Provides effective theme development, object selection, evaluation of external proposals, preparation of written support materials such as labels and catalogs, and installation plans.

Researches and interprets works in PMA’s holdings of modern and contemporary art and makes recommendations for acquisitions to further develop the collection in this area.

Serves as the lead curator in the development, care, and interpretive strategies of the Davie E. Shaw and Family Sculpture Park and other outdoor sculpture initiatives.

Manifests the PMA's commitment to and support for Maine-based working artists through a rigorous program of studio visits and submission reviews.

Serves as an integral resource to internal and external constituencies on matters of scholarship related to modern and contemporary art. Fosters relationships with artists and collectors locally and nationally, actively soliciting their help in enhancing the collection. Communicates and maintains positive relationships with dealers.

Works across PMA departments to coordinate logistics for exhibitions and publications, including contracts, loan agreements, rights and reproductions, packing and shipping, design and installation, editing, publications, publicity and fundraising, and other details.

Collaborates with internal and external curators, Learning and Community Collaboration staff, and designers in the creation of program content, and with Advancement and Sustainability staff to expand audiences and support for the PMA collection and programs.

Collaborates with fundraising staff to identify appropriate funding opportunities, cultivate potential individual prospects, formulate strategies, and assist with grant applications, to build and steward the PMA’s strong donor base, and to lead initiatives to secure financial resources for programs. Works closely with affinity groups, advises on programs, and participates in their activities.

Provides gallery talks, lectures, and other presentations for various audiences including the general public, PMA membership, PMA affinity groups, and the scholarly community on topics relating to the PMA’s collections and programs. Participates in Board committee meetings as assigned, particularly the Collection Committee.

Supports and leads programmatic initiatives related to the PMA’s multifaceted Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusivity (DEAI) initiatives, which are designed to promote inclusiveness, prevent discrimination, and create an organization that challenges and changes practices that present barriers.

Champions the PMA’s strategic initiatives and vision, providing enthusiastic leadership that strengthens the PMA and supports positive workplace culture.

Fosters relationships with members of the public including scholars, critics, community groups, and other relevant audiences in encouraging interest in the PMA, its collections, and its mission.

Participates in regional and national professional communities and organizations in order to enhance the general and scholarly understanding of the PMA, its collections, and its mission.

Performs special projects and other related duties as required, directed, or as the situation dictates.

Complies with all PMA safety rules and procedures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

May supervise occasional interns as directed, including interviewing and selection, training and development, scheduling, and evaluating performance.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

Master’s Degree, A.B.D., or Ph.D. in Art History or a related field with emphasis in modern and contemporary art. Minimum of five years of curatorial or related professional experience. Additional expertise in another field related to the PMA’s collection is highly desired.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Strong art historical knowledge and research skills demonstrated through scholarly accomplishments in modern and contemporary art history. Scholarly knowledge of another field related to the PMA’s collection is also desirable.

Exemplary writing skills, compelling public speaking presence, and excellent oral communication skills.

Ability to communicate effectively and to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with a variety of individuals contacted in the course of work.

Willingness and capacity to represent the PMA in a variety of contexts, including travel (up to 25% travel required).

Demonstrated experience in exhibition development, publication development, and collection care.

Knowledge of and commitment to professional museum standards.

Excellent problem solving, planning, and organizational skills, with the ability to execute multiple projects and responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Ability to adhere to PMA brand charter and style guide and ability to communicate effectively with constituents in writing, in-person, and over the phone.

Interest in and working knowledge of museum technologies, including in-gallery technological innovations and collection management software.

Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Ability to operate computers and work with databases and assigned software, including Microsoft Office.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Regular attendance at the workplace is required. The majority of work is performed in a normal office environment or in a museum or gallery setting not subject to extremes of noise, temperature, odor, etc. Operate computer, printer, photocopier, scanner, and other office equipment. Work involves extended sitting and computer use. Evening and weekend work required including at events. Local, regional, national, and international travel will be required. TERMS:

This is a full-time, exempt, UAW Local 2110 union position to be filled at the Associate Curator level on pay grade J with a full salary range listed below.TO APPLY:Qualified candidates are invited to apply by submitting a cover letter and resume for consideration.Job applications will be accepted electronically only and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.