Britton Family Curator at Large, North American Art – Tate (Freelance, North America-Based)

Institution: Tate
Deadline: 1 March 2026
Location: North America (with travel to London and New York)
Contract: 3-year fixed-term freelance contract
Time Commitment: Approx. 21.6 hours per week (flexible)
Fee: Circa $70,000–$80,000 per annum (excluding agreed travel expenses)

Tate is seeking an experienced curator or scholar based in North America to serve as Britton Family Curator at Large, North American Art. While a key member of the Tate Modern division, the role reports primarily to the Director of Collection and works closely with curators across the institution.

This position plays a strategic role in expanding Tate’s collection of modern and contemporary art from North America and developing new transnational narratives within the collection.

The Curator at Large will lead research, acquisitions strategy, and patron engagement in North America, working closely with the Tate Americas Foundation (TAF) and serving as curatorial lead of the North American Acquisitions Committee (NAAC).

The role focuses on sourcing transformational works that expand the canon and deepen institutional understanding of modern and contemporary art from the region.

Key Responsibilities

Collection, Acquisitions & Research

• Provide strategic leadership on acquisitions of modern and contemporary art from North America

• Refine and secure acquisition proposals through TAF and NAAC funding streams

• Lead two NAAC meetings annually (London in October; New York in May)

• Conduct in-depth research to expand and reframe narratives within Tate’s collection

• Write authoritative acquisition texts and liaise across Tate departments

• Represent Tate externally through presentations and scholarly engagement

• Design and lead research trips and steward NAAC members at major art events (e.g. Frieze New York, Venice Biennale)

General Duties

• Maintain and develop networks with artists, estates, dealers, scholars, critics, and curators

• Undertake studio visits, exhibition visits, and archival research

• Contribute to Tate’s research culture through conferences, publications, and events

• Submit an annual report at the end of each contract year

• Adhere to Tate’s confidentiality and code of practice

Candidate Profile

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Expert knowledge of modern and contemporary art, particularly in North America

• Substantial experience working in a museum, gallery, or collection context

• Strong understanding of collecting practices within a global museum framework

• Significant publication record or equivalent scholarly output

• Experience engaging broad and diverse audiences

• Strategic leadership and management experience

• Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills

• Excellent research and writing skills in English

• Commitment to equality, cultural diversity, and inclusive curatorial practice

• Established professional networks in North America

• Eligibility to work in the United States

• Willingness to travel nationally and internationally