Exhibition Installation & Fabrication Specialist

Virginia Commonwealth University; Richmond (VA); Sur place; USD 53 000 - 63 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

The Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond invites applications for the Preparator role. You will support art-handling, fabrication, installation and de-installation across exhibitions, working with the Senior Preparator and the exhibitions team.

Responsibilities include assisting with commissions, exhibition layouts, and A/V tasks, coordinating with artists and fabricators, and maintaining project records while adhering to museum standards.

Qualifications

• At least (3) years of professional experience working as an art handler, fabricator, carpenter, or A/V tech at other museums, galleries, design/build firms, academic institutions, preferably contemporary Art installations.
• Able to work independently or in a team-setting with a high level of attention to detail, sense of urgency, and ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with museum best practices for object care and handling, packing and moving of artworks, and appropriate display techniques.
• Working knowledge of different types of audio-visual equipment.
• Working knowledge of gallery lighting (wiring/adapting fixtures, creating custom gels, knowledge of different styles of bulbs and their applications).
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills
• Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Demonstrated experience working with exhibitions teams
• Good organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work in physically demanding situations, including heavy lifting up to 50 pounds and working at heights
• Flexibility to work nights and weekends
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Responsabilités

• Collaborate with artists, curators, and project stakeholders to develop new commissions, from initial concept discussions through installation.
• Contribute to the ideation and planning of artist-led projects, ensuring alignment with curatorial objectives, budgets, timelines, and spatial requirements.
• Produce exhibition layouts, installation plans, scale drawings, and technical documentation to support the realization of new commissions and temporary exhibitions.
• Coordinate with artists, fabricators, registrars, and installation teams to translate conceptual proposals into practical exhibition solutions.
• Conduct site visits, spatial assessments, and feasibility studies to inform exhibition design and artwork placement.
• Support the development of exhibition through the testing and refinement of gallery layouts, visitor flow, and interpretive elements.
• Prepare presentation materials, floor plans, and visualizations for internal review, artist consultations, and stakeholder approvals.
• Maintain accurate records of design iterations, installation requirements, and project specifications throughout the exhibition development process.

Connaissances

Art handling

A/V knowledge

Fabrication skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Formation

BFA in Studio Art or Architecture

Outils

Hand & power tools

Description du poste

The Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond invites applications for the Preparator role. You will support art-handling, fabrication, installation and de-installation across exhibitions, working with the Senior Preparator and the exhibitions team.

Responsibilities include assisting with commissions, exhibition layouts, and A/V tasks, coordinating with artists and fabricators, and maintaining project records while adhering to museum standards.