Curator for African Art
OVERVIEW
The BMA is seeking a dynamic and innovative Curator and Department Head for African Art to join an 11-member curatorial team in an institution with both an impressive collection of African objects and a strong record of scholarship and major African art exhibitions. Directing the Department for Arts of Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific Islands, the curator will oversee the BMA’s extensive collection of over 2,000 African objects including textiles. The curator reports to the Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs. The Department is supported by a Curatorial Assistant, a part-time Associate Curator for the Arts of Asia, plus work study students, and interns. The Museum supports the engagement of consulting scholars to offer Museum staff expertise in overseeing all the collections that make up this department.
The curator’s first assignment represents a major opportunity, the formulation of plans for a new installation of the African collection, part of a current project for reinstallation of several major collections. This project is collaborative including colleagues in education as well as exhibition design and installation. The objective is to develop new approaches for display and interpretation based on the commitment of delivering memorable and inspiring experiences with works of art to a broad and diverse public.
S/he will work with a dedicated group of collectors, including the support group, The Friends of the Arts of Africa, The Pacific, and the Americas. Through exhibitions, public programs, and publications of scholarly significance, this curator will enhance a long tradition of commitment to the appreciation and study of African Art. S/he will build new and more diverse audiences and help connect the BMA to other arts and academic institutions in Baltimore.
REQUIREMENTS
This position requires an advanced degree with a specialty in African Art, a record of scholarship, and a minimum of 5 years of curatorial experience. The Curator will work collaboratively both inside and outside the institution and known for demonstrating leadership. S/he will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including writing and public speaking skills. The candidate will be creative, innovative, and influential. S/he will be skilled in diplomacy, negotiation, planning, and organization.
BENEFITS
The BMA is an equal opportunity employer and a drug free workplace. We offer a competitive salary and a generous benefits package. For this exempt position we offer medical, dental, vision, prescription, pension plan, 403b retirement plan, long term disability, flexible spending account, flexible and condensed scheduling, museum and restaurant discount, and reduced fee gym membership. We also offer 4 weeks of accrued vacation, 9 holidays, 3 personal days, a floating holiday, and 12 sick days.
TO APPLY
Curatorial title and salary will be commensurate with background and level of museum experience. Please send cover letter, resume, record of scholarship, and salary requirements via email to HR@artbma.org with “Curator of African Art-AAAPI Search” in the subject line. No phone calls please.
The application review process will begin on February 13, 2012.
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