Aso O. Tavitian Curator or Associate Curator of Early Modern European Painting and Sculpture

Position Summary:

The Aso O. Tavitian Associate or full Curator of Early Modern European Painting and Sculpture is responsible for the care, exhibition, research, and interpretation of the Clark Art Institute’s recently acquired Aso O. Tavitian Collection. The Tavitian Curator will also work closely with the Chief Curator on the care of the Clark’s non-Tavitian collection of fifteenth- through eighteenth-century paintings and sculpture. This role includes overseeing the Tavitian collection’s long-term care, organizing exhibitions, engaging with donors, and collaborating with various departments to enhance the collection’s accessibility and educational impact. The Tavitian Curator will be responsible for developing and maintaining contact with the public, donors, lenders, students, and professional colleagues to expand the audience for the Tavitian collection and its related programs and publications. Title and level (Associate Curator or Curator) will be determined based on the selected candidate’s experience, expertise, and qualifications.

Major Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

• Oversee the preservation and presentation of the Tavitian collection of 331 works of art including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and decorative arts object in accordance with generally accepted museum standards and best practices.
• Develop and implement a dynamic exhibition program featuring works from the Tavitian Collection, as part of the Clark’s overall exhibition program; collaborate with international institutions and private collectors to present innovative and scholarly displays.
• Perform scholarly research on the collections, promoting their reputation through teaching, lecturing, and publishing for both the scholarly and general public.
• Encourage and promote research on the collection.
• Work with the Clark’s registration office, which ensures accurate information is maintained in TMS for accessibility and accountability, and that detailed curatorial records of the collection are maintained and organized, including cataloging and documentation, ensuring files represent the status of knowledge about each object.
• Produce scholarly publications and exhibition catalogs to advance the understanding of the collection and the field.
• Assist in grant writing and other fundraising initiatives to secure resources for exhibitions, acquisitions, and research projects.
• Track and ensure compliance with all curatorial related requirements of the Tavitian collection Gift Agreement.
• Assist with creation of quarterly reports to the Tavitian Foundation regarding curatorial activity related to the collection.
• Supervise and train graduate interns and possibly postdoctoral fellows, teach independent study courses, and advise other students interested in the art collections.
• Respond to public inquiries concerning early modern collections, disseminate accurate information, and establish positive rapport and respect.
• Stay current with developments in the field and participate in professional organizations and meetings to understand and, as appropriate, incorporate trends and new approaches to exhibitions and permanent collection displays and strategies.
• Stay current with developments in the art market.
• Collaborate with the Division of Learning and Engagement to develop interpretive programs and materials that enhance public understanding of the collection.
• Conduct lectures, gallery talks, and presentations for diverse audiences, including scholars, students, and the public.
• Identify and propose acquisitions that align with the Institute’s collecting goals, focusing on enhancing the Early Modern European collection.
• Engage in scholarly research on the Clark’s collections, contributing to the field through publications and presentations.
• Supervise and mentor curatorial assistants, interns, and volunteers, fostering a collaborative and educational work environment.
• Stay informed about developments in the field and participate in professional organizations and conferences to incorporate new approaches and best practices.
• Other relevant duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education, Training, and Skills:Ph.D. in Art History with a specialization in Early Modern European art preferred.
• Proficiency in relevant European languages for research purposes.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Specialization in Southern European paintings and sculpture helpful but not required.

• Work Experience:Minimum of 3-5 years of curatorial experience in a museum or academic setting, with a focus on Early Modern European art.
• Demonstrated experience in organizing exhibitions and producing scholarly publications.
• Proven ability to engage with donors and participate in fundraising activities.

Salary Range: $73,000-$113,000/yr., depending on hiring level

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Physical Demands:Ability to sit at a desk and use a computer for prolonged periods.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during exhibition installations and tours.
• Capability to handle artworks, including lifting up to 30 pounds.

• Work Environment:Work is performed in office environments, galleries, and storage areas.
• Occasional travel may be required for research, conferences, and donor cultivation.

Employment at the Clark is contingent on the verification of background information submitted by the applicant.

The Clark is an equal opportunity employer, and is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). We strongly encourage applications from individuals from all identities and backgrounds.The Clark provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or transgender status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

The Clark considers equivalent combinations of experience and education for certain jobs. All candidates who believe they possess equivalent experience and education are encouraged to apply.