Director of Artistic Programs

Position: Director of Artistic Programs
Reports to: Executive Director

Position Description:

The DAP will be a visionary leader with a passion for working with artists to create new work and vital programming that furthers the possibilities and interpretations of contemporary visual art.

Job Responsibilities

The Soap Factory’s mission is to be a laboratory for artistic experimentation and innovation, dedicated to supporting artists and engaging audiences through the production and presentation of contemporary art in a unique and historic environment.

The DAP is responsible for the design, development, implementation, funding and promotion of the primary Soap Factory artistic programs: Exhibition, Artists in Residence, Working Studio, Public Engagement, and Public Space. Programs must be effective and relevant, developed in the wider cultural context of contemporary art, have potential to expand the influence of The Soap Factory beyond the Midwest region, seek to support underrepresented voices in our community, and be closely aligned to the mission and ethos of the organization.

Specifically the Artistic Director will:

• Oversee exhibition program curation, design, and installation at TSF.
• Collaborate with artists in the commissioning, exhibition and promotion of artwork and exhibitions for The Soap Factory.
• Lead the development of The Soap Factory’s Artist in Residence & Studio program.
• Direct the Residency Program, including professional development support for residents and others
• Liaise with and support partnerships and projects that include community participation, engagement, and exchange that further TSF’s commitment to diversity
• Work closely with the Program Committee of the Board to identify strategic, forward­looking alliances, relationships, and themes.
• Work closely with the Executive Director to prioritize long­term, sustainable strategies for the organization at an overall management level.
• Work closely with program staff to create a holistic program that properly reflects The Soap Factory’s mission.
• Contribute to the overall vision for the programs at TSF through research, curating and writing.
• Participate actively in seeking out and securing program funding for all programs. The DAP and ED will be primarily responsible for program­based funding for the organization, supported by the Development Committee of the Board.

Essential Skills

A relevant degree in the history of art, curatorial studies, studio art, or related field.
7 years minimum of work experience commissioning art projects.
Demonstrable experience in a management/oversight role of comparable residency and exhibition programming.
Demonstrable knowledge of and involvement in contemporary art.
Excellent organizational, planning and administrative skills, with ability to prioritise and coordinate multiple activities to meet deadlines.
Experience in writing grants for artistic programs and a knowledge of relevant arts funding opportunities
Ability to manage staff and lead a team that includes volunteers. Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
Skilled negotiator with aptitude for managing different types of relationships.
Proven capacity to work in a team setting and in a community­based environment.
Ability to communicate effectively with TSF executive staff and building management personnel

How to Apply:

Please respond via email with CV, letter of interest, application materials, and salary requirements (if any) to info@soapfactory.org by November 10, 2017. Please do not submit your materials by mail or in person.

The Soap Factory is committed to building a diverse workforce and strongly encourages people of color and people with disabilities to apply.

Director of Artistic Programs: Application Requirements

Please include the following in your application:

Letter of interest

Samples

Provide images of your exhibition/programming sufficient to illustrate excellence in your work. A minimum of 9 images is required. Additional materials including program descriptions, scholarly writing, documentation, peer reviews, catalogues, and articles may also be provided.

Provide one grant writing sample or excerpt by the applicant that was successful, limited to 2 pages.

Include a CV and list of references (no letters).

Director of Artistic Programs: Application Timetable

Application period opens: October 2, 2017

Application period closes: November 10, 2017

Application Review Panel: November 13 – 21, 2017

Invitations to Interview Sent: December 1, 2017

Interviews Scheduled: December 1, 2017 – January 15, 2018

Offer or Employment: February 1, 2018

Expected Start Date: March 1, 2018