Start Date: April 2024
18th Street Arts Center in Santa Monica is looking for a full-time, permanent Curator of Artist Residencies. The ideal candidate will report to the Deputy Director of Artistic Programs and play a key role in shaping the vision for the center’s Residency Programs. Responsibilities include leading the artist selection process, organizing events, exhibitions, and open studios to showcase artists’ work, and ensuring the programs stay relevant and engaging.
Responsibilities
- Lead the artist selection process, focusing on diversity and inclusivity.
- Organize events, exhibitions, and open studios to promote artists’ work and community involvement.
- Collaborate with deputy directors to maintain and grow residency underwriters and partnerships.
- Stay current with best practices in the field and adapt to artists’ evolving needs.
- Communicate about contemporary art practices through publications, events, and fundraising activities.
- Build relationships with artists, curators, and stakeholders to expand the organization’s network.
- Manage exhibition spaces and installation teams, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance.
- Develop and oversee annual budgets for residency and exhibition spaces, adhering to approved budgets.
- Supervise the Residency Coordinator and Head Preparator.
Qualifications
Required:
- Significant experience in residency programs, artist production, or contemporary art careers.
- Passion for public engagement and working with artists-in-residence.
- Master’s degree in museum studies, art history, or similar, with 5+ years in a leadership role.
- Proficiency in MS Office/Google suite and project management tools.
Preferred:
- Experience with social media, content management systems, and design tools.
- Strong writing and visual communication skills.
- Spanish fluency.
Benefits
- Full-time, permanent position with a salary range of $75,000 – $85,000.
- Fully paid medical and dental insurance.
- Simple IRA plan with employer match.
- Two weeks of vacation plus federal holidays.
- Hybrid work schedule possible.
Application Process
Deadline: March 4, 2024
Apply online with a cover letter, current resume, writing samples, curatorial samples, and professional references. Incomplete applications or those sent via email or mail will not be reviewed.
18th Street Arts Center encourages applications from all qualified individuals and is an equal opportunities employer.
About 18th Street Arts Center
Located in Santa Monica, CA, 18th Street Arts Center is a leading hub for artistic innovation. The center supports contemporary artists through its residency program, exhibitions, and cultural resource mapping. Founded in 1988, it remains committed to diversity, sustainability, and community engagement, fostering a more just and peaceful world.