Curatorial Assistant | Ireland

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Curatorial Assistant – Fellowship Fund

The National Gallery of Ireland (‘the Gallery’) is Ireland’s largest national cultural institution devoted to the collection and care of fine art. The Gallery’s collection comprises some 16,000 artworks, including masterpieces by many of the most celebrated figures in the history of Western art. In addition, the Gallery houses the most comprehensive collection of Irish art, and the National Portrait Collection. Its collection of art and archives are invaluable resources for anyone with an interest in art, history and Western culture. Funded mainly by the State, the Gallery employs more than 160 staff and is accessible free of charge to the public 361 days a year. The role of the Gallery’s Curatorial team is to research, develop and display the permanent collection, to make the collection accessible, and to conceive and realise temporary exhibitions. In the fulfilment of their responsibilities, the Curators collaborate closely, and on an ongoing basis, with other departments within the Gallery, and with colleagues and counterparts outside the institution, both in Ireland and beyond.

The Gallery wishes to recruit a Curatorial Assistant in the Curatorial Department on a 12-month fixed-term contract. Reporting to the Head Curator (or nominated deputy), the Curatorial Assistant will serve as an integral member of the Curatorial Department. The Curatorial Assistant will:

Assist in the preparation of exhibitions
Assist in the management and display of the permanent collection
Conduct research on works of art in the collection
Update information for wall texts
Update documentation in the curatorial files
Provide administration support within the Curatorial Department
Work closely with individual curators, liaising regularly with members of staff in other teams and departments
Complete any other duties as required

The successful candidate will have:

An advanced qualification in Art History or commensurate discipline
Demonstrable knowledge of the Gallery’s collections, exhibitions and operations within the cultural, heritage and arts sectors in Ireland
Advanced writing skills (shortlisted applicants may be asked to provide an example of their written work)
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Strong administration skills and attention to detail, coupled with an ability to meet deadlines while maintaining accuracy
Proficient IT skills with a good knowledge of social media / MS Packages
An ability to work on own initiative and as part of an effective team
An enthusiasm and willingness to contribute to a positive working environment
A positive attitude and proactive approach to work with a readiness to learn and develop a career in arts, heritage and cultural institutions

Note: This job description is a guide to broad areas of responsibility and accountability and should not be regarded as a comprehensive listing. The job description may be subject to review in the view of new structures and / or the changing needs of the Gallery. All employees are required to be compliant with NGI screening, security and Garda vetting procedures.

The role will comprise four primary components:

Primary work placement

The Curatorial Assistant will be assigned to particular projects under the supervision of the Head Curator.

Professional experience and exposure

The Curatorial Assistant will be exposed to the diverse functions of the Gallery, and given the opportunity to avail of professional training opportunities and seminars.

Public tours and research

Regular interaction with visitors and speaking about works of art is an essential skill for museum professionals. The Curatorial Assistant will be invited to contribute to public Gallery tours and/or education programmes.

Career and Skills Development Support

The Curatorial Assistant will take part in an induction programme, and maintain a Professional Portfolio, which will contain a schedule of work and personal professional development plan. The purpose of the Portfolio is to provide an agreed work plan, and a record of the Curatorial Assistant’s professional experience, thereby ensuring clarity around work commitments and providing a valuable document that will support the Fellow in future employment or education applications.

Salary: Salary will be in accordance with point 1st the Assistant Keeper II Salary Scale (PPC) currently €30,680 per annum.

Candidates should note the National Gallery of Ireland complies with Department of Public Expenditure and Reform regulations and guidelines on Public Service pay and conditions of employment and pension provisions.

Contract Duration: 12 month fixed-term contract

Closing date for receipt of applications: 14th September 2018

Interview dates: Interviews will commence week of 24th September 2018

For full job description and details on how to apply visit: https://www.nationalgallery.ie/current-vacancies