Art Gallery Assistant

We are Sorrel Sky Gallery - a nationally respected, prestigious, high-end gallery, representing some of the top artists in the industry since 2002. Please view our beautiful gallery and exceptional artist works at www.sorrelskygallery.com.

We are seeking a responsible, motivated, and versatile Gallery Assistant to join our Santa Fe Gallery team. This role involves assisting in various gallery operations, including art shipping & packaging, art hangings & rotations, art receiving & storage, special events, and basic building maintenance. Our ideal candidate will uphold the ideals and standards of our gallery space, working closely with the artists we represent and the gallery sales team. Professionalism in spirit, demeanor, and appearance is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Gallery Operations: Packing and shipping fine art in a careful and safe manner. Rotate and re-hang gallery displays under the guidance of the gallery manager.
• Organization: Maintain order and cleanliness in back-of-house areas, storage, and the gallery itself. Keep the shipping area clean and organized.
• Art Handling: This role requires significant physical capability, including lifting and carrying heavy items (up to 75 lbs.), navigating stairs with fragile or heavy objects, and working on ladders for installations and lighting adjustments. Candidates must be comfortable with the physical demands of handling and installing large-scale and heavy artworks such as bronze sculptures and oversized photographs.
• Administrative Duties: Track tasks daily on spreadsheets, reconcile shipping and other expenses, and maintain art inventory records. Report progress and issues to leadership.
• Lighting Adjustments: Replace and adjust ceiling, spotlight, and jewelry case lighting as needed.
• Communication: Communicate with represented artists regarding inventory intake. Represent the gallery professionally and knowledgeably at exhibitions and events.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Think outside the box to overcome challenges, particularly when dealing with unconventional art pieces.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely and effectively with other team members to ensure proper customer service and a positive work environment.
• Customer Service: Display inventory creatively and compellingly to engage clients. Maintain strong customer service practices.
• Event Support: Assist during special events and exhibitions.
• Physical Tasks: Perform basic building maintenance and sculpture garden set up/cleaning as needed.
• Client Installations: Travel occasionally for client installations, showcasing professionalism and expertise.

Requirements:

• Minimum 1-year experience in art packing, shipping, and crating.
• Knowledge of handling fragile items.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Proficiency with Mac platforms.
• Physical ability to lift 75 lbs., work on ladders, and navigate stairs with heavy or fragile objects.
• Strong commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
• Solid communication and interpersonal skills.
• Friendly and energetic personality.
• Highly organized with the ability to prioritize tasks under pressure.
• Flexible availability, including weekends, holidays, and events.
• Ability to adapt to constructive criticism and grow within the role.

Preferred (Not Required):

• Experience with fine art installation.

Working Conditions:

• Flexible hours: 20 to 25 hours/week.
• Typical hours: 9 AM to 6 PM, with availability for evenings and weekends as needed.
• Work location: On-site.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay ranging from $25-$30/hour, depending on experience.
• A creative and inspiring work environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• A chance to work closely with unique and challenging art pieces.

Application Directions:

Submit your cover letter and resume when applying for this position. The position is open until filled. We are an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity/expression.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Are you able to lift up to 75 lbs. and engage in other, regular physical activity, such as lifting and moving artwork ?
• Are you willing to work occasional weekends and or events to accommodate gallery events or special needs?

Experience:

• Gallery Assistant: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Santa Fe, NM 87501 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $30