Association of Academic Museums and Galleries

Assistant Curator, Indigenous Art

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks an Assistant Curator, Indigenous Art to join the RISD Museum. The RISD Museum believes that art, artists, and the institutions that support them play pivotal roles in promoting broad civic engagement and creating more open societies. Established in 1877 as part of a vibrant creative community, the RISD Museum stewards works of art representing diverse cultures from ancient times to the present. We interpret our collection with the focus on the maker and we deeply engage with art and artists, presenting ideas and perspectives that can be inspiring and complex. We aspire to create an accessible and inclusive environment that fosters meaningful relationships across all communities.

Under the supervision of the Chief Curator, the Assistant Curator, Indigenous Art takes responsibility for the care and development of an important departmental collection of Indigenous Art – understood at the museum as art and objects derived from Native American, Mesoamerican, and other cultures – as well as its interpretation through exhibitions, publications, and participation in the RISD Museum teaching and educational programs. A successful applicant will recognize and value diversity as central to excellence and thrive in a campus environment that is committed to advancing the principles of social equity and inclusion, environmental and climate justice, and equal access to resources and opportunities.

Essential Functions:

Responsible for the care of the collection:

• Document Indigenous Art in the collection: supply basic cataloging information to Registrar for all objects acquired or already owned by the Museum; conduct inventories of objects in the collection; conduct and record or publish research on objects in the collection. Oversee the preparation of work sent to the photography studio.
• Preserve Indigenous Art in the collection: In conjunction with other staff, participates in conversations and consultations with indigenous communities regarding the proper care and disposition of items in the Museum collection. Stays current and advises the Museum on best practices for empathetic care, handling, storage, and display of collections, with central attention paid to indigenous perspectives. Implement established handling procedures and oversee proper handling by fellows, interns, work-study students, and visitors. Make recommendations for loans, advising on their care. At the request of the Chief Curator, serve as courier.
• Coordinate with the Museum Security Department to ensure the security of works of art.
• Work closely with the Head Registrar on NAGPRA matters and responsively engage in consultation and restitution.
   

Through an inclusive lens, teach and make the collection accessible for RISD and Brown faculty and students, the broader academic community, and the general public. Answer scholarly and public inquiries. This role can often extend beyond typical work hours and carries expectations of acting in tandem with museum colleagues as an ambassador for the institution, fostering a deep connection with the community–and given the parameters of the position Native American communities in particular–both within and outside the workplace.

Work collaboratively with Museum staff to interpret the collection through exhibitions, installations, publications, and educational programs.

Help to build the collection through developing a sound knowledge of the art market including availability and value of objects; maintaining contact with dealers; and cultivating active and potential donors. Recommend purchases and gifts in consultation with the Chief Curator and the Director, as well as deaccessions and method of deaccessioning (sale, exchange, transfer). 

Support the fundraising and public relations efforts of the Museum and the Development Office:

• Identify, cultivate, and educate supporters and potential supporters of the Museum through advice and special activities.
• Provide timely information regarding the collection and exhibitions to prepare grants, budgets, project work plans, and marketing and publicity efforts.

Additional Functions:

• Train and supervise interns and work/study students.
• Share day-to-day departmental responsibilities equitably with colleagues to promote collaboration and teamwork. Perform assignments as requested by the Chief Curator or Director.
• Contribute to the life of the Museum and College through participation in institution-wide and Museum-wide committees and projects, as requested and approved by the Director.
• Participate in the larger academic field and the museum profession through such activities as lectures, written contributions, panel and peer review service, and attendance at symposia, professional workshops and meetings, and local/regional arts events.
• In the absence of the Department Head, assume responsibilities related to Indigenous Art.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Experience

• Minimum of two years curatorial or related experience; a record of scholarly publications and/or exhibitions.
• Fluency in English and proficiency in at least one other language required.
• Familiarity with conservation and collection care.
• Excellent research and writing skills
• Excellent communication skills.
• Collaborative with a teamwork approach and flexibility.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Masters degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required.

Union:

No

Work Schedule:

35 hours per week; 12 months per year

Employment Status:

Full-time; Exempt; Regular

Salary:

$55,000/yr

Work Modality

Hybrid Eligible

Documents Needed to Apply:

Resume (Required)

Cover Letter (Required)

 Apply online at https://risd.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/RISD/details/Assistant-Curator–Indigenous-Art_R-01490-1

Salary Grade Structure

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.

The successful candidate will be required to meet our pre-employment background screening requirements.

RISD recognizes diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to its learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.

For internal use only – Job Family:

Museum Curatorial