Curator of Japanese and Korean Art

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Published on 17 April 2024

OVERVIEW
The Curator of Japanese and Korean Art evaluates the authenticity and artistic value of artworks, manages the collection’s care and presentation, and develops exhibitions and installations. This role involves collaboration across multiple museum locations and with diverse stakeholders, including collectors and the Board of Trustees, to enhance the collection’s potential.

This position offers different levels of appointment—Associate Curator, Assistant Curator, or Curator—based on qualifications and experience. Compensation aligns with the position level.

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) commits to racial equity and seeks candidates who are passionate, qualified, and diverse. SAM values inclusivity and equity in the workplace, focusing on empowering social justice and structural change through art.

REPORTS TO: Deputy Director for Art

COMPENSATION:

Curator: $86,915-$130,375 annual salary, depending on experience
Associate Curator: $65,291-$74,286 annual salary, depending on experience
Assistant Curator: $52,000-$61,000 annual salary, depending on experience

BENEFITS:
Employees enjoy comprehensive health coverage, life insurance, a 403b plan, sick leave, vacation leave, paid holidays, subsidized transportation, fitness facility access, and museum membership.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Collection Management

Document and research the museum’s Japanese and Korean art collection for identification, display, and publication.
Develop strategic plans for acquisitions and engage with collectors and fundraising activities.
Manage the care of the permanent collection and loans with the Conservation and Museum Services Departments.

Exhibitions and Installations

Organize and oversee art exhibitions and installations, from concept to execution.
Collaborate on exhibition themes, manage budgets, and engage with external contributors and the community to ensure exhibitions align with public and scholarly interests.

Community Engagement

Enhance community awareness and appreciation for Asian arts through lectures, tours, and seminars.
Build the museum’s reputation and community relationships through publications, presentations, and collaborative projects.

Administration and General Responsibilities

Collaborate with museum staff across multiple locations, supervise departmental assistants, and manage budgets.
Represent the museum professionally and ethically in all dealings.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Preferred: Ph.D. in Art History with a focus on Japanese and Korean art. Candidates with an M.A. and significant experience will also be considered.
Minimum of four years of relevant museum experience.
Strong knowledge of Japanese and Korean art, culture, and languages.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Proficient in MS Office and The Museum System (TMS).

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Primarily indoors in a climate-controlled environment with some extended hours during exhibitions.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES REQUIRED:
Office work predominates but includes occasional lifting and extended periods of standing during events.

SAM encourages applications from individuals who do not meet every qualification and from historically underrepresented groups in the museum field. SAM is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

TO APPLY:
Visit the Seattle Art Museum’s job application portal to submit your application, cover letter, and resume.

DEADLINE: Until Filled