Modern and Contemporary Art Curator

Modern and Contemporary Art Curator

• Work Schedule:
  
  Monday‑Friday 9‑5, with some evenings and weekends
• Export Compliance Requirement:
  No export control requirement

At the Ulrich Museum of Art at Wichita State University, we don’t just exhibit art—we create space for conversation, collaboration, and discovery. With a collection that rivals the quality of major museums around the globe, we have built a reputation as a hub where curators launch meaningful careers and make their mark in the field.

We’re seeking a dynamic professional ready to shape exhibitions, experiment with ideas, and connect art to our diverse community.

This is not a plug‑and‑play curatorial position where traveling shows arrive in crates. Here, you’ll curate it all—from concept to execution—developing six to eight original exhibitions each year. You’ll research collections, work directly with artists, collaborate with designers, and create interpretive materials that invite visitors to experience art in new and accessible ways.

But this role is also about people. Our Curator is both a scholar and a connector—someone who can write compellingly to assist in obtaining more grants, and build strong relationships with artists, donors, and community partners.

Manages museum art acquisitions, collections, and exhibitions utilizing broad‑based learning strategies to creatively interpret and contextualize modern and contemporary art for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Develops relationships that enhance and cultivate exhibition and acquisition opportunities. Participates in both short and long‑term planning. Conducts research and develops publications.

Participates in research and publication efforts related to the collection; ensures adherence to established policies; serves the museum’s educational mission by overseeing student interns on the development of research and writing skills; encourages university engagement by developing campus relationships and seeking opportunities for collaboration and joint research related to museum collections, exhibitions, and publications; collaborates with local and regional artists and/or groups and executes applicable policies and processes related to the curation of both collection and loaned works of art;

collaborates with staff in the development and implementation of exhibitions, programs and educational experiences; develops plans and implements strategies to generate funds and other resources for the museum, particularly through grant‑writing in support of the Museum’s exhibitions.

• Curate and develop original exhibitions from the Ulrich’s distinguished collection and beyond.
• Collaborate with an exhibition designer, manager, and interns to bring shows to life.
• Write and research catalogs, artist biographies, and interpretive materials that deepen engagement.
• Manage budget tracking, grant writing, and fundraising.
• Foster donor and artist relationships while expanding a professional network in the field.
• Create experiences that welcome, inspire, and resonate with diverse audiences.
• Mentor and supervise interns.

Responsibilities may also include performing duties outside of these normal responsibilities, as needed.

Master’s degree in art history or related field.