Assistant, Associate, or Curator of Art after 1950
The Farnsworth Art Museum, located in the scenic coastal community of Rockland, Maine, is recognized nationally as one of the finest repositories of American art. With over 15,000 works, our collection underscores Maine as the inspiration for many of the artists represented in our holdings. We currently have an opening for a full-time Assistant, Associate, or Curator of American Art. Reporting to the Chief Curator, this person will be a key member of the Farnsworth Art Museum’s (FAM) Curatorial team. They will work closely with colleagues to conduct research, organize exhibitions, develop interpretive materials, recommend acquisitions, and advance the museum’s mission. This individual will also share in the stewardship of two historic sites, the Farnsworth Homestead and the world famous Olson House.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Chief Curator, the Curator of Art after 1950 will be a key member of the Farnsworth Art Museum’s (FAM) Curatorial team, working closely with colleagues to conduct research, organize exhibitions, develop interpretive materials, recommend acquisitions, and advance the museum’s mission. Candidates may demonstrate expertise through a focus on modern or contemporary art, or through specialization in a particular medium as it relates to the strengths of the Farnsworth’s collection and mission. This is an on-site position in Rockland, Maine.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Conceives and develops exhibitions and gallery installations that will enhance the public’s understanding of American art from the mid-twentieth century to today. As assigned, curates or co-curates the Momentum
- Researches and interprets works in FAM’s holdings of American art after 1950 and makes recommendations for acquisitions to further develop the collection in this area. Reinterpret works in the collection to include underrepresented narratives and diverse perspectives for broad audiences.
- Collaborates with colleagues in the Wyeth Study Center and Brandywine Museum to develop new scholarship and dynamic exhibitions that contextualize and amplify the legacy of the artistic family.
- Serves as an integral resource for internal and external constituencies on matters of scholarship related to modern and/or contemporary American art, including medium-specific areas of expertise.
- Fosters relationships with collectors, galleries, and artists locally and nationally, actively soliciting their help in enhancing the collection, and communicates and maintains positive relationships with dealers.
- Conducts regular studio visits with artists to remain actively engaged in the field.
- Works across FAM departments to coordinate logistics for exhibitions and publications, including contracts, loan agreements, rights and reproduction, packing and shipping, design, and installation, developing and editing publications, publicity and fundraising, and other details.
- Collaborates with internal and external curators, Learning and Engagement staff, and designers in the creation of program content, and with Advancement and Communications staff to expand audiences and support for the FAM collection and programs.
- Works closely with the Chief Curator to recommend acquisitions to the Collection Committee on a quarterly basis, collaborating with Registrars on logistics, and participates in meetings.
- Provides gallery talks, lectures, interviews for social media content, and other presentations for various audiences including the general public, FAM membership, FAM affinity groups, and the community on various topics.
- Works with the Chief Curator and Chief of Advancement to build support for the growth of the Collection and the Museum, including assistance with grant writing, donor cultivation, etc.
- Fosters relationships with members of the public, including scholars, critics, community groups, and other relevant audiences in encouraging interest in the FAM, its collection, and its mission.
- Participates in regional and national professional communities and organizations in order to enhance the general and scholarly understanding of the FAM, its collection, and its mission.
- Performs special projects and other related duties as required, directed, or as the situation dictates.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
M.A. or Ph.D. in Art History or a related field (Curatorial Practice, Visual Studies, Material Culture, etc.) required with at least 5 years of museum, gallery, or related professional experience.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Strong art historical knowledge and research skills demonstrated through scholarly accomplishments in American art history. Broad knowledge of postwar American art and modern and contemporary art.
- Special interest in the artistic legacy of the Wyeths (N.C., Andrew, and Jamie) and artists with long-standing connections to Maine.
- Exemplary writing skills, compelling public speaking presence, and excellent oral communication skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively and to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with a variety of individuals contacted in the course of work.
- Willingness and capacity to represent the FAM in a variety of contexts.
- Demonstrated experience in exhibition development, publication development, and collection care.
- Knowledge of and commitment to professional museum standards.
- Excellent problem solving, planning, and organizational skills, with the ability to execute multiple projects and responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
- Ability to adhere to FAM brand and style guide and ability to communicate effectively with constituents in writing, in-person, and over the phone.
- Interest in and working knowledge of museum technologies, including in-gallery technological innovations and collection management software.
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
- Ability to operate computers and work with databases and assigned software, including Microsoft Office, Google Platforms, Asana, and Bloomberg Connects
- Ability to pass a criminal background check.
Salary commensurate with experience. Range depends on curatorial level: $55,000 - $65,000.
Desired start date: September 2026
