Curator, Contemporary Craft & Design — Emerging Leader

ADP, Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

MFA Boston is seeking the Ronald C. and Anita L. Wornick Assistant Curator of Contemporary Decorative Arts. The role develops exhibitions, enhances the collection, and deepens donor ties while championing diverse audiences.

The successful candidate will manage installations, collaborate across departments, and advance the field through research, publications, and public talks within a global, transhistorical framework.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Art History or related field with a focus on Contemporary Craft, Decorative Art, and/or Design.
• 3 to 5 years of curatorial experience in the craft, decorative arts, or design field.
• Scholarly research and publishing track record with exhibitions and related publications.
• National and international perspectives with commitment to the museum's city and community.
• Established contacts with national and international colleagues, artists, dealers, and museum professionals.
• Demonstrated ability to attract and cultivate donors.
• Strong planning and project management skills to manage multiple projects.
• Ability to partner with leadership to develop the artistic vision and growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop, plan, and organize installations in the permanent collection galleries.
• Propose and execute exhibition ideas; oversee related activities, including publications and labels.
• Advance the scope of contemporary craft, decorative art, and design within the collection.
• Engage Boston’s community and a diverse range of visitors.
• Cultivate donor relationships and assist with grant applications.
• Collaborate to research and document the collection in The Museum System (TMS).
• Identify objects and assess provenance; arrange loans and authenticity checks.
• Deliver talks on the permanent collection and special projects.

Skills

Project management

Donor cultivation

Public speaking

Collaborative work

Scholarly communication

Education

Master’s or PhD in Art History

Tools

The Museum System (TMS)

Job description

MFA Boston is seeking the Ronald C. and Anita L. Wornick Assistant Curator of Contemporary Decorative Arts. The role develops exhibitions, enhances the collection, and deepens donor ties while championing diverse audiences.

The successful candidate will manage installations, collaborate across departments, and advance the field through research, publications, and public talks within a global, transhistorical framework.