Roles & Responsibilities
The Associate Specialist (Modern & Contemporary Art) will assist in the curation, research, and execution of Modern and Contemporary Art auctions, including both live and online sales. The role involves managing consignments, producing high-quality cataloguing content, and supporting client relationships. The ideal candidate possesses strong art historical knowledge, commercial acumen, and a keen understanding of the Southeast Asian art market.
Consignment & Research
- Support the sourcing and evaluation of artworks for sale across live and online auctions.
- Conduct due diligence, provenance checks, and market research to ensure accuracy and integrity of information.
- Assist in the preparation of valuation reports and consignment proposals for clients.
Catalogue & Sale Preparation
- Draft clear and engaging catalogue entries, artist biographies, and curatorial notes.
- Coordinate artwork photography, measurements, and data entry into internal systems.
- Liaise with the Marketing and Design teams to ensure timely production of sale catalogues and promotional materials.
Client Engagement
- Support Specialists in building and maintaining relationships with collectors, consignors, and institutions.
- Respond to client enquiries regarding artworks, estimates, and bidding processes.
- Assist in the organization of client viewings, previews, and exhibitions.
Sale Execution & Post‑Sale
- Assist in the smooth running of live and online auctions, including lot order, bidding, and sale monitoring.
- Prepare post‑sale reports, buyer invoices, and consignment settlements.
- Provide after‑sale client support and follow‑up communications.
Market Analysis
- Monitor regional and international art trends to identify potential opportunities for consignments.
- Maintain and update artist databases, sales records, and performance analyses.
- Participate in gallery openings, art fairs, and museum shows to stay up to date with the market.
Qualification Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Fine Arts, Arts Management, or related discipline.
- 2–4 years of relevant experience in an auction house, art gallery, or art advisory environment.
- Strong interest and knowledge in Modern & Contemporary art, particularly in Southeast Asia.
- Excellent research, writing, and communication skills in English (Mandarin or another Asian language is advantageous to communicate with clients/artists from Asian countries).
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
- A proactive, collaborative, and professional approach to work.
- Demonstrated ability in appraising property and business‑getting.
- Knowledge of e‑mail, spreadsheet, word processing, and presentation software (Microsoft Office preferred).
- Ability to learn 33 auction systems including Box, AuctionFlex, AuctionMobility and website.
- Superior client service skills.
- Demonstrated ability to multi‑task and prioritize.
- Strong follow‑up skills with attention to detail.
Tell employers what skills you have
- Ability to Multitask
- Sales
- Contemporary Art
- Microsoft Office
- Bidding
- Appraisals
- Social Media
- Interpersonal Skills
- Relationship Management
- Selling
- Marketing
- Art History
- Word Processing
- Attention to Detail
- Writing
- Cataloguing
- Curating
- Sourcing
- Ability To Learn
- Adobe Photoshop