Assistant Curator of the Collection

Department: Collections | Reports to: William and Lia Poorvu Curator of the Collection | Full-time, exempt, maximum five-year term | Onsite, Boston-based position. Local candidates strongly preferred.

About the role

The Assistant Curator of the Collection is responsible for developing exhibitions, researching, managing, and implementing curatorial aspects of exhibitions and their related publications, interpretation, and materials. They must propose and execute at least one major exhibition in the course of their five-year term. This is a grant-funded position dedicated to reevaluating the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum’s collection through the lens of religion and spirituality. The successful candidate may have expertise in any geographic or chronological area represented in the collection, with preference given to those with scholarly or curatorial experience in projects related to religion and spirituality.

The Gardner Museum values collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. The successful candidate will undertake projects in consultation with outside experts, artists, and community thought leaders.

Responsibilities

• Propose and execute at least one special exhibition focused on a religious or spiritual topic.
• Contribute to the conceptualization and planning of public programs and permanent collection projects with spiritual or religious themes.
• Participate in curatorial decisions in oversight of the collection and programs, including in consultation with conservation.
• Write texts for the presentation of the collection and exhibitions.
• Present lectures and public talks.
• Conduct research on the collection in support of exhibitions, public programs, and publications.
• Other duties as assigned by the William and Lia Poorvu Curator of the Collection.

Requirements

• Minimum of three years of experience in a museum curatorial position.
• Ph.D. preferred, but equivalent experience acceptable; advanced knowledge in a relevant field of art history, as well as general art historical knowledge.
• Has originated at least one special exhibition or permanent collection installation, ideally with religious themes or avenues of inquiry.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• An original and flexible thinker who can work across departments; ability to conceptualize with other creative individuals.
• Strong collaborative skills and ability to work across disciplines.
• Curiosity and interest in other areas of creativity at the Museum, including contemporary art, music, landscape, and education.
• Excellent writing skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and team skills; strong public speaking and teaching ability, with an interest in improving in these areas.
• Demonstrated commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and accessible experiences for diverse audiences.
• Ability to work with all levels of the Museum and the professional Museum community, including Board members, volunteers, and supporters.
• Highest level of integrity.

Pay

$75,000 – $85,000 depending on experience.