Curator of Exhibitions and the Collection

Curator of Exhibitions and the Collection

About the South Bend Museum of Art

SBMA as a free public museum, serves this community by showcasing up to 15 exhibitions a year in its 5 galleries, conserving 1100 works of art in its permanent collection, engaging in school and community partnerships, and offering studio art classes and numerous educational programs to the public.

Executive Director

The South Bend Museum of Art (SBMA) seeks a visionary and collaborative Curator of Exhibitions and the Collection to lead the development, interpretation, and care of its exhibitions and permanent collection across their six galleries.  This role is instrumental in shaping the museum’s artistic direction, fostering community engagement, and supporting SBMA’s mission to celebrate the power of the visual arts.

Exhibition Development and Management:

• Conceptualize and Lead Exhibitions: Working closely with the Exhibitions and Collections Committee, plan, curate, execute and install a dynamic annual schedule of exhibitions, balancing local, regional and national artists to inspire and engage diverse audiences.  This position coordinates the meetings of the Exhibitions and Collection Committee and manages the Preparator.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Work with artists, lenders, curatorial team, Exhibitions and Collection Committee, and Curators of Education to develop exhibitions that align with the museum’s mission and vision.  Ensures timely communication of exhibition schedule to staff, board members and stakeholders.
• Interpretative and Public Engagement: Oversee the creation of exhibition content, didactic, and interpretive materials, digital and web content, and marketing content ensuring accessibility and relevance for all audiences.  

Collections Stewardship: 

• Manages the Associate Curator/Collection Manager overseeing the care, documentation, and conservation of the museum’s permanent collection, ensuring adherence to best practices and ethical standards. Responsible for all policies for collection use, access and storage.
• Supports collection development and efforts to diversify and expand the collection working with the Board of Directors, Exhibitions and Collection Committee and donors to align acquisitions with strategic goals.

Community Engagement and Partnership:

• Collaborates with Curators of Education and marketing to create programs that complement exhibitions and engage the community.  Fosters inclusive programming to reach underrepresented audiences, ensuring SBMA reflects and serves its diverse communities.
• Coordinates with marketing and event staff, receptions that celebrate and support exhibitions.
• Builds relationships with local artists, organizations, and educational institutions to enhance the museum’s visibility and impact.

Administrative and Leadership:

• Supervises and mentors the Associate Curator and Preparator, interns and volunteers.  Supports broader SBMA team at events and activities.
• Prepares departmental budgets, artist contracts and stipends, and policies associated with the collection and exhibitions.
• Contributes to the museum’s strategic goals, focusing on innovation, inclusivity, artistic excellence.
• Partners with the SBMA team to secure funding for acquisitions, exhibitions, and conservation efforts.
• Represents SBMA at public events and within the local arts community which may include evenings and weekends.
• Undertakes other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

• Requires physical activity, including lifting and moving objects up to 40 pounds, working on ladders, and standing for extended periods.
• Occasional evening and weekend hours for events and installations.

Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus benefits.

QUALIFICATIONS

Degree in Art -or- Art History or related experience and expertise in contemporary art and emerging forms of media. Minimum five years  management experience; publications and lectures in the field.

Preference will be given to applicants with experience working with artists in the Midwest and specifically South Bend, IN region.

Demonstrated strong leadership skills. Excellent verbal and writing skills, public speaking skills, and computer proficiency. Exceptional artistic judgment. Experience in public relations functions. Demonstrated program planning and implementation skills, with demonstrated management and organizational ability. Ability to work well as part of a team; good interpersonal skills; creativity, energy and enthusiasm. Flexibility and willingness to adapt to changing needs of organization. Able to remain calm in stressful situations. Safety-oriented. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

An advanced degree in Art or Art History.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The South Bend Museum of Art is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We believe in fostering a workplace that values diverse perspectives and experiences, which enriches our work and strengthens our community.