Curatorial Assistant, Artists-in-Residence and Performance at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Organisation: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art / The Momentary
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas, US
Contract: Full-time, on-site
Salary: Not specified
Application deadline: Not specified (applications currently open)

About the Position

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is seeking a Curatorial Assistant, Artists-in-Residence and Performance, to support the research, planning and implementation of artist residencies, exhibitions, festivals, performances, artist talks and special projects across Crystal Bridges and the Momentary.

Crystal Bridges explores the unfolding story of America through collecting, exhibiting, interpreting and preserving works of art. The Momentary, an extension of the museum, is a contemporary cultural venue bringing together art, music and community experiences.

The Curatorial Assistant will contribute to the programme’s vision through curatorial research, producing, project coordination and artist relations, working closely with the Curator, Artists-in-Residence and Performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Support artist residency programmes, including coordinating housing, transportation, studio visits and on-site requirements.
• Conduct curatorial research and contribute to the development of residencies, commissions, exhibitions, presentations and performances.
• Prepare programme notes, wall texts, catalogue entries, descriptions and other written materials.
• Coordinate communication with artists, their representatives, community partners and external contractors.
• Support artist-led public programmes, tours and presentations.
• Assist with budgets, contracts, project schedules and documentation.
• Collaborate with curatorial, production, communications, learning and engagement teams.
• Support the coordination of interns and volunteers and contribute to the development of the programme.

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in art history or a related discipline and one to two years of professional experience in a museum, cultural organisation, gallery or similar setting. Previous curatorial experience is preferred.

The role requires knowledge of visual arts and performance, including music, theatre, dance, performance art and time-based media, alongside experience working with artists.

Candidates should demonstrate strong organisational and project coordination skills, excellent communication abilities and the capacity to work independently and collaboratively.

Experience supporting artist residencies, producing events or working with living artists and their representatives is particularly valued. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends may be required.

Image: Courtesy of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.