Curator of Exhibitions
Deadline: 29 July, 2012
Job Description
Reporting to the Director, Curator of Exhibitions is responsible for developing an overarching concept and the programme of contemporary exhibitions and events including exhibitions, publications, travelling shows, off-site projects and cultural excursions. As part of the management team, the incumbent will also participate in business and strategic planning for The Power Plant.
Major responsibilities include:
• Contribute to the research, development and presentation of new exhibitions and projects that interpret the response of artists to developments in contemporary culture and that respond to the global flow of information, emerging discourses, new artists, new geographies, new media and changing contexts that underpin developments in contemporary art
• Develop and implement a cohesive vision and strategy for the exhibition of contemporary art
• Develop and curate rigorous exhibitions, both large and small, of Canadian and international contemporary art
• Contribute to the implementation of programmes aimed at engaging new and diverse audiences for The Power Plant through a dynamic mix of exhibition, education, interpretation and visitor support that develop audience understanding of contemporary art and awareness of its significance
• Collaborate with the Director and other staff in the creation of interpretive materials, publicity materials and public programmes for a variety of audiences
• Prepare and monitor exhibition budgets and expenses
• Conduct original research, negotiate with artists and lending institutions and supervise installations
• Manage and direct the work of subordinate staff
Requirements
The ideal candidate will be a pragmatic organizer and team worker with a proven intellectual track record, excellent knowledge of contemporary art and the contemporary art world, and a commitment to work in the public realm. His/her interests should be broad but grounded in a vision of contemporary art as practice in active dialogue with the contemporary world and its concerns.
He/she will hold a post graduate degree in Art History or related studies as well as in-depth knowledge of contemporary art. A minimum of 5 years’ experience in programming and management in a contemporary art organization, museum or public gallery is preferred. The candidate must be able to demonstrate a clear vision of their own curatorial practice. An appreciation of the history of curating in its political context is crucial, as are a critical understanding of contemporary art and a methodology that would enable the candidate to place their work into the context of other initiatives in the greater Toronto area and Canada on the whole. Proven experience in the organization of contemporary art projects and interpretive programmes and exceptional knowledge of the international contexts for contemporary art is a must, as is proven fundraising and budget management experience. He/she must have exceptional interpersonal and relationship management skills with the ability to develop effective partnerships and to persuade and negotiate. He/she must be computer literate and able to work flexible hours during events with evenings and weekends as needed to oversee programmes and participate in other gallery activities.
How to apply
Qualified applicants must apply by 29 July, 2012.
Please send your resume quoting Job Ref. # 12F17-IP to:
Human Resources
Harbourfront Centre
235 Queens Quay West
Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
Fax: 416.973.1003
jobs@harbourfrontcentre.com
Harbourfront Centre is committed to building a diverse workforce and strongly encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
Website: http://www.thepowerplant.org/AboutUs/Opportunities.aspx#javascript:void(0)
