Associate Curator or Curator of American Art

The Farnsworth Art Museum, located in the scenic coastal community of Rockland, Maine, is recognized nationally as one of the finest repositories of American art. With over 15,000 works, our collection underscores Maine as the inspiration for many of the artists represented in our holdings. We currently have an opening for a full-time Associate Curator or Curator of American Art. Reporting to the Chief Curator, this person will be a key member of the Farnsworth Art Museum’s (FAM) Curatorial team. They will work closely with colleagues to conduct research, organize exhibitions, develop interpretive materials, recommend acquisitions, and advance the museum’s mission. This individual will also share in the stewardship of two historic sites, the Farnsworth Homestead and the world famous Olson House.

Essential Job Functions

Conceives and develops exhibitions and gallery installations that will enhance the public’s understanding of American art from the nineteenth century through the mid-twentieth century.
Researches and interprets works in FAM’s holdings of American art and makes recommendations for acquisitions to further develop the collection in this area. Reinterpret works in the American collections to include underrepresented narratives and diverse perspectives for broad audiences.
Collaborates with colleagues in the Wyeth Study Center and Brandywine Museum to develop new scholarship and dynamic exhibitions that contextualize and amplify the legacy of the artistic family.
Serves as an integral resource to internal and external constituencies on matters of scholarship related to American art.
Fosters relationships with collectors locally and nationally, actively soliciting their help in enhancing the collection, and communicates and maintains positive relationships with dealers.
Works across FAM departments to coordinate logistics for exhibitions and publications, including contracts, loan agreements, rights and reproduction, packing and shipping, design, and installation, developing and editing publications, publicity and fundraising, and other details.
Collaborates with internal and external curators, Learning and Engagement staff, and designers in the creation of program content, and with Advancement and Communications staff to expand audiences and support for the FAM collection and programs.
Provides gallery talks, lectures, and other presentations for various audiences including the general public, FAM membership, FAM affinity groups, and the community on various topics. Participates in Collection Committee meetings as assigned.
Work with the Chief Curator and Chief of Advancement to build support for the growth of the Collection and the Museum, including assistance with grant writing, donor cultivation, etc.
Fosters relationships with members of the public, including scholars, critics, community groups, and other relevant audiences in encouraging interest in the FAM, its collection, and its mission.
Participates in regional and national professional communities and organizations in order to enhance the general and scholarly understanding of the FAM, its collection, and its mission.
Performs special projects and other related duties as required, directed, or as the situation dictates.

Qualifications

Strong art historical knowledge and research skills demonstrated through scholarly accomplishments in American art history. Broad knowledge of American painting, sculptures, prints & drawings, and decorative arts from the Colonial Era through World War II.
Special interest in the artistic legacy of the Wyeth family (N.C., Andrew, and Jamie).
Exemplary writing skills, compelling public speaking presence, and excellent oral communication skills.
Ability to communicate effectively and to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with a variety of individuals contacted in the course of work.
Willingness and capacity to represent the FAM in a variety of contexts.
Demonstrated experience in exhibition development, publication development, and collection care.
Knowledge of and commitment to professional museum standards.
Excellent problem solving, planning, and organizational skills, with the ability to execute multiple projects and responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Ability to adhere to FAM brand and style guide and ability to communicate effectively with constituents in writing, in-person, and over the phone.
Interest in and working knowledge of museum technologies, including in-gallery technological innovations and collection management software.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Ability to operate computers and work with databases and assigned software, including Microsoft Office, Google Platforms, and Asana.
Ability to pass a criminal background check.

Education

M.A. or Ph.D. in Art History or a related field (American Studies, History, Museum Studies, etc.) required with at least 5 years of museum, gallery, or related professional experience. Additional expertise in another field related to the FAM collection (American art or historic houses) is highly desired.

Salary: $55,000 – $74,000

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