Curatorial Assistant

Institution: Art Institute of Chicago
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Position: Full-time, on-site, 3-year term

The Art Institute of Chicago seeks a Curatorial Assistant to support the planning and realization of a major survey exhibition of Cy Twombly’s work, scheduled for 2028. Based in the Department of Modern and Contemporary Art, this full-time, term-limited role involves in-depth research, coordination, and administrative support for a high-profile exhibition. The position offers opportunities to contribute to scholarship, liaise with international partners, and participate in exhibition travel and content development.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the curator-at-large in all phases of exhibition planning and execution
• Conduct and organize research on artworks, archives, and provenance
• Coordinate with internal departments and a co-organizing institution
• Draft texts for catalogues and interpretive materials
• Manage image requests, author communications, and lender correspondence
• Prepare materials for meetings, presentations, and educational programs
• Track data across databases, internal drives, and timelines
• Support fundraising and grant applications
• Participate in artist and lender relationships, as well as guided tours

Candidate Profile

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in art history or related field
• Familiarity with modern and contemporary art, preferably Cy Twombly
• Strong research and writing skills, with attention to detail and deadlines
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite; museum databases a plus
• Foreign language skills preferred
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a collaborative and inclusive mindset
• Willingness to travel and work occasional evenings or weekends