MN Arboretum - Art Curatorial Assistant - Part-Time

Overview: 

The Curatorial Assistant at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum plays a vital role in supporting the Curator of Art and Sculpture in all aspects of co-created exhibition planning, development, and execution. This part time position involves a combination of administrative tasks, research responsibilities, and hands-on assistance in managing and developing collections and exhibitions. 

This position has the option for hybrid work past the training window. Can be discussed further during the interview.

Responsibilities: 

• Co-Creation and Community Relationship Building: Collaborate with internal and external teams to design and implement community engagement strategies surrounding new art experiences at the Arboretum while facilitating dialogue and communication between diverse community groups. You will help develop initiatives that promote inclusivity, engagement, and mutual support. 
• Exhibition Planning: Provide support in the conceptualization, planning, and execution of exhibitions, including coordinating logistics, liaising with artists and vendors, and assisting in the development of exhibition printed materials. 
• Administrative Support: Assist with administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, recording meeting notes, 
• Assistance: Aid in the installation and deinstallation of exhibitions, including handling and placement of artworks, preparation of gallery spaces, and coordination with volunteers and gardeners. 
• Public Engagement: Assist in the development and implementation of educational programs, guided tours, and public events related to art education, exhibitions and collections with a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion in Arboretum practices and programming 
• Documentation: Assist in the documentation of exhibitions, events, and collections through photography, writing, and archival practices. 
• Collaboration: Collaborate closely with other Arboretum departments, including education, marketing, development, visitor services, membership and grounds to ensure seamless coordination and communication across all areas of operation. 

Required 

• Bachelor's degree in Art History, Museum Studies, or related field (Masters degree or working towards Master's degree preferred). Or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least 4 years.
• Commitment to the promotion of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion in Arboretum practices and programming which result in meaningful opportunities for underrepresented voices to be celebrated through art. 
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. 
• Proficiency in database management systems and office software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite). 
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Desired 

• Proven experience building relationships with organizations and/or community groups. 
• Previous experience in a museum, gallery, or cultural institution, preferably in a curatorial or collections management role. 
• Strong research skills with the ability to analyze and interpret visual and textual materials. 
• Knowledge of best practices in museum ethics, conservation, and collections care.

Additional Requirements: 

• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for exhibition openings, events, and special programs. 
• Physical ability to lift and move artworks and exhibition materials as required.

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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