Head of Research, Impressionist & Modern Art Christie's · New York · On-site · · USD 90k–120k

Full time Head of Research, Impressionist & Modern Art

Christie’s, the world’s largest Art Business, is an incredibly exciting & enriching place to start or continue your career. Whether you work within one of our Specialist Art Departments, or in one of our more Operational teams, we are all working together with one common goal in mind: to continue the success of this 250 year old company, steeped in history, bringing fresh ideas whilst not forgetting our shared values;
Integrity, Excellence, Innovation, Responsibility & Relationships. Colleagues across all departments are truly passionate about what they do, and it is inspiring to work with industry leaders across our business.

The Head of Research & Senior Writer is responsible for composing scholarly, well-researched lot essays to accompany the Impressionist & Modern works of art included in the 20th Century Evening Sale, the premier global sale platform of its kind. This role will work closely with the specialist team and wider department to ensure exceptional standards for writing, editing, proofreading and copyediting the aforementioned scholarly essays alongside other client-facing materials as required by the department, such as proposals and bespoke catalogues.

The ideal candidate will have: five years of relevant experience; a demonstrated background in Impressionist & Modern Art and scholarly writing; exceptional written and verbal communication and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

History of Art master’s degrees are strongly preferred. Please note that a relevant writing sample is required to apply. Applications without will not be considered.

How You'll Make an Impact 20th Century Evening Sale

Research and write compelling, scholarly essays for the Impressionist & Modern works of art in the 20th Century Evening Sale, working closely with the specialist team and other key department stakeholders to ensure smooth production and timely sign off. Project manage the production and delivery of digital lot essays on  Select comparative, engaging images to accompany the lot essays, partnering with the copyright team to ensure illustrations are sourced and copyright permissions cleared ahead of print and online publishing deadlines.

Coordinate with the Creative team and Impressionist & Modern Art Specialists to edit and produce dedicated and single owner catalogues, contributing written materials and comparatives as well as aiding in the overall design, layout, look and feel. Contribute writing and research for the creation of proposals, collection dedications and other business getting or research documents for the Impressionist and Modern department.

Manage collaboration with other internal and external essay writers, including hiring, training and management of freelance writers as needed.

Lead guided tours during pre-sale exhibition. Head of Research

Partner with Head of Research EMEA to develop the global research strategy for Impressionist and Modern Art. Support the wider global research team as needed with lot essays and business getting documents for other sale sites. Build key networks between external writers, scholars and institutions and Christie’s research team.

Develop and deliver a regular training program on topics such as writing for auction, best practices for research, and how to use Christie’s designated essay design platform and proofing system. Oversee the Impressionist & Modern Art library, including managing the purchasing of new books, ensuring new books are catalogued in the internal database and monitoring its general maintenance. What you’ll bring to

Undergraduate degree required, master’s degree in art history strongly preferred Demonstrated knowledge of and

in Impressionist & Modern Art 5+ years’ work

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including superior written and spoken communication Strong project management

including ability to multi-task, prioritize, manage, and meet multiple deadlines Hard-working, energetic, and intellectually curious self-starter who can…