Art Curator & Exhibition Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary growth

Major exhibitions

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Generous leave

Art & culture work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Art Curator & Exhibition Manager to shape captivating exhibitions in Port Elizabeth. You will select artworks, develop concepts, manage loans, and supervise installation and presentation of exhibits.

The role requires deep art history knowledge, contemporary trends, and strong writing while overseeing budgets, tours, talks and related programming to engage visitors and the arts community.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of curatorial and exhibition management experience in an art gallery or museum.
• Strong writing, editing and communication abilities; detail-oriented and well organized.

Responsibilities

• Research, conceptualize, and develop engaging exhibition proposals with narrative structures.
• Source and secure artworks for exhibitions, manage loans, insurance and condition reports.
• Write interpretive texts, labels and catalogue essays to enhance visitor understanding.
• Oversee installation logistics including spatial design, lighting and mounting.
• Manage exhibition budgets and ensure delivery within financial constraints.
• Engage the public through tours, talks and related programming.

Skills

Writing skills

Editing skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Project management

Research & connoisseurship

Exhibition design knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Art History / Curatorial Studies / Museum Studies

Job description

Our client is seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Art Curator & Exhibition Manager to oversee the development and execution of captivating exhibitions in Port Elizabeth . This role requires a deep understanding of art history, contemporary art trends, and the practicalities of exhibition management. You will be responsible for selecting artworks, developing exhibition concepts, managing loans, and overseeing the installation and presentation of exhibits. This is a unique opportunity for an arts professional to shape cultural experiences and contribute to the thriving arts community in Port Elizabeth .

Key Responsibilities

• Research, conceptualize, and develop engaging exhibition proposals, including thematic focus, target audience, and narrative structure.
• Source and secure artworks for exhibitions, managing loan agreements, insurance, and condition reports with artists, galleries, and collectors.
• Write compelling interpretive texts, labels, and catalogue essays to enhance visitor understanding and engagement.
• Oversee the logistical aspects of exhibition installation, including spatial design, lighting, and mounting of artworks.
• Manage exhibition budgets, ensuring projects are delivered within financial constraints.
• Engage with the public through tours, talks, and other programming related to the exhibitions.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in curatorial work and exhibition management within an art gallery or museum setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in art research, connoisseurship, and exhibition development.
• Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Knowledge of art handling, conservation principles, and exhibition design best practices.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and opportunities for professional growth within the arts sector.
• The chance to curate significant exhibitions in Port Elizabeth .
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Generous leave allowance.
• Work in a stimulating environment surrounded by art and culture.