Salary: up to £22,000 per annum, dependent on experience
Location: London
Level: NA
Deadline: 27/10/2019 23:59
Hours: 37.5
Benefits: Plus attractive benefits
Job Type: Fixed Term
On 24 November 2016 the Design Museum opened in its new home in Kensington. The new museum hosts an influential and engaging programme of exhibitions, including monographic and thematic shows on every aspect of contemporary design and architecture.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a self-motivated Assistant Curator who is passionate and knowledgeable about design to join the Curatorial team on a fixed term 12-month contract. The successful candidate will play a key role assisting the curators to research and deliver exhibitions at the museum. This role will suit an individual with a good knowledge of design history and experience researching and developing projects collaboratively.
Job scope
The role will involve assisting museum curators, as well as external curators, to develop major exhibitions, smaller displays and public programme projects. Working primarily with one curator at a time, the assistant may also take curatorial responsibility for ancillary displays around the museum and for updating the permanent collection display. The role combines curatorial and administrative support, with the opportunity to take personal initiative and develop a curatorial voice.
This role is offered on a 12-month fixed term contract. The deadline for applications is Sunday 27 October at midnight. Interviews will take place on either Wednesday 13 or Thursday 14 November 2019.
Job description
Curator support
- Research and develop exhibition content, working under the direction of the Curator, compiling records, files and findings as appropriate
- Assist the Curator in compiling a list of objects/exhibits for exhibitions, displays, pop-ups etc
- Drafting and/or initial editing of exhibition label and catalogue text
- Undertake picture research and copyright clearance
- Research and deliver smaller displays at the museum
- Deliver exhibition tours for the public, staff and extrnal stakehalders
- Represent the Design Museum at exhibition openings, networking and public events including discussions and conferences
Exhibition project support and administration
- Work closely with the Exhibition Project Manager and if appropriate exhibition designers to assist in the delivery of an exhibition
- Working with the Curator and other members of the Exhibitions team to ensure that audiences and visitor engagement is considered throughout the process, using existing and new interpretation tools where appropriate
- Attend relevant meetings on the projects, acting as administrator, such as minute taking and action points
General support
- Act as liaison when the Curator is not present/available
- Co-ordinate the work of any Volunteer(s) working on the project, liaising with the Volunteer and Community Manager
- Participate in cross departmental meetings relating to the projects and other exhibitions-related matters
- Reply to requests and unsolicited proposals
Person specification
Knowledge, skills and experience
Essential
- Relevant curatorial or residency experience gained working either independently/freelance and/or within a museum/cultural institution setting
- A good understanding and knowledge of contemporary design practice
- Previous experience of assisting with the curation of exhibitions
- Some experience of interpretation within the context of exhibitions
- Excellent research and presentation skills
- Ability to communicate effectively and confidently in English, both in writing and verbally, with colleagues and external contacts within a museum/gallery environment
- Ability to work as part of a team and independently, remaining calm under pressure in a fast-paced work environment
- Ability to plan work to meet agreed standards, deadlines, budgets.
- A self motivated team player
Desirable
- A master’s degree in museum studies, curating or equivalent experience
- Experience of developing and delivering interpretation that effectively engages visitors
- Experience of working in the museums and galleries sector
- Experience of writing or editing exhibition and catalogue text
