Assistant Curator of the Collection

Assistant Curator of the Collection

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. They are also responsible for conducting research on the permanent collection and identifying new narratives and stories related to objects within their area of expertise.

This is a grant-funded position for a maximum of five years, 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. Preference will be given to candidates with scholarly or curatorial experience in projects related to religion and spirituality.

Their exhibition and collections-based projects will engage with this particular line of inquiry. The Gardner Museum values collaboration with internal and external stakeholders and the successful candidate will undertake these projects in consultation with outside experts, artists, and community thought leaders.

Responsibilities include:

• 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.
• 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 include:

• 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; has the 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Museum is committed to affording equal opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age (40 or older), disability, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, ancestry, or status as a veteran. Consistent with our core values and our founder's legacy, the Museum is dedicated to building a work community that fosters collaboration, excellence, belonging, and a diversity of perspectives and experience.

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