The National Portrait Gallery is seeking to appoint a freelance Curator to support the development of content for its new online learning resource hub, launching in 2023.
Picturing History aims to be the go-to digital learning resource for teachers and schools teaching history and art through portraiture. Designed for schools across the country, Picturing History will enable off-site learning and strengthen a new on-site blended learning offer for schools at the NPG from summer 2023. We are now looking for a talented, creative, motivated and experienced freelance Curator to research and deliver the scope and ambition of this outstanding national learning resource for all schools.
Working closely with the Digital Learning Manager- Picturing History, the Director of Learning and Engagement and the wider Learning, Curatorial and Digital teams, the post holder will play a crucial role in developing the content for Picturing History. They will develop the overarching historical content through collections research and interpretation for use by schools. This research will extend the narratives from key sitters, themes, stories represented in the portraits in the Gallery’s Collection in new and imaginative ways including topical and thematic interpretations. Research will be extended to include archival and photographic material in the wider Collection. The national curriculum and needs of teachers and students will underpin the content.
You will have worked in a curatorial or interpretation role in a cultural or heritage setting, and have experience working with a broad range of collections portfolio. You will need a firm background in historical research, and a strong understanding of British history since the 1600s. In particular, the post-holder will need to demonstrate an excellent understanding of interpreting empire and colonial histories and an interest in education and engagement.
Given that the successful candidate will be working with a range of colleagues from across the organisation and beyond, as well as developing public facing engaging content, you will need to have excellent communication skills both written and verbal. A strong audience-focus and an ability to write in plain English are key for this role.
BUDGET
A total budget of £30k exclusive of VAT is available for this work. It is expected to take approximately 130 days.
HOW TO APPLY
Please send an application, outlining how you would respond to the scope of the brief and lead this work at the Gallery over the specified period. As part of your application please include an up to date CV detailing your relevant skills and experience. The appointed freelance Curator will be able to work remotely.
Applications must be submitted by 9:00am on Monday 24 January 2022.
Interviews will take place on 1-3 February 2022. Please confirm your availability for interview on these dates in your application.
Please send applications to:
Liz Smith, Director of Learning and Engagement
lsmith@npg.org.uk
