Senior Curator - Contemporary Art

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a prestigious art institution in Nelspruit to recruit a Senior Curator who will lead contemporary art programming, shape exhibitions, and manage the permanent collection.

The role emphasizes scholarly research, publication, community engagement, mentorship of junior staff, and collaboration with artists, galleries, and patrons, with opportunities for travel and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Extensive curatorial experience in contemporary art.
• Proven ability to plan and organize major exhibitions.
• Experience publishing exhibition catalogues and essays.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a dynamic curatorial program for contemporary art and exhibitions.
• Conduct scholarly research on artists and artworks for catalogs and programs.
• Oversee the acquisition, care, and documentation of the permanent collection.
• Cultivate relationships with artists, galleries, dealers, collectors and museum professionals.

Skills

Curatorial leadership

Exhibition planning

Scholarly research

Public speaking

Team management

Relationship building

Budget management

Education

MA or PhD in Art History/Curatorial Studies

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious art institution in Nelspruit, is seeking an accomplished and passionate Senior Curator to lead its contemporary art programming. This on-site role is central to shaping the gallery's identity and engaging the community through thought-provoking exhibitions and collections. You will be responsible for researching, conceptualizing, and developing exhibitions, managing the permanent collection, and fostering relationships with artists, collectors, and patrons. This position demands a profound understanding of contemporary art, exceptional curatorial expertise, and strong leadership skills to guide the curatorial team and contribute to the institution's strategic vision within the Arts & Entertainment sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a dynamic curatorial program for contemporary art, including organizing major exhibitions and smaller displays.
• Conduct scholarly research on artists and artworks, contributing to exhibition catalogues, gallery publications, and public programs.
• Oversee the acquisition, care, and documentation of the permanent collection of contemporary art.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with artists, galleries, dealers, collectors, and museum professionals.
• Liaise with designers, fabricators, and conservators to realize exhibition installations to the highest standards.
• Develop and manage the curatorial department's budget, ensuring responsible fiscal management.
• Write insightful curatorial statements, wall texts, and interpretative materials for exhibitions.
• Organize and present lectures, talks, and panel discussions related to exhibitions and the permanent collection.
• Represent the institution at conferences, art fairs, and other professional events.
• Mentor and supervise junior curatorial staff, interns, and volunteers.

Requirements

• Extensive curatorial experience in contemporary art, with a strong record of organizing significant exhibitions.
• Advanced degree (MA or PhD) in Art History, Curatorial Studies, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of 20th and 21st-century art, with a specialization in contemporary practices.
• Proven ability to conduct scholarly research and publish exhibition catalogues and essays.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Experience in collection management and development.
• Strong network within the contemporary art world.
• Familiarity with museum best practices and exhibition standards.
• Fluency in additional languages is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous retirement plan. This role provides the opportunity to make a significant impact on the cultural landscape of Nelspruit and contribute meaningfully to the Arts & Entertainment sector. You will have access to excellent resources and collaborate with a dedicated team of arts professionals. Benefits include ample paid time off and opportunities for professional development, including travel to international art events.