Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Assistant Preparator
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AMFA), located in Little Rock, AR, seeks an Assistant Preparator to join the staff during an extraordinary transformation that includes the construction of a new state-of-the-art facility, scheduled to open in 2022. Designed by the renowned architecture firm, Studio Gang, the new facility will secure AMFA’s position as one of the top cultural institutions in the state and region. The new museum will feature state-of-the-art galleries, art school, theatre, lecture hall, outdoor event area, and other spaces to host programming, classes, and performances. The innovative Cultural Living Room, restaurant, store, and landscaped grounds will position the AMFA as a cultural hub for Little Rock and the Delta region.
Working under the direction of the Collections Manager and Head Registrar, and in close collaboration with the Exhibition Designer, Curators, Preparator, and related staff, the Assistant Preparator will report to the Preparator and is responsible for assisting with the handling, packing, matting, framing, installing, and lighting of all artwork and exhibitions in accordance with museum best practices.
Primary Duties and responsibilities:
- Collaborates with Curatorial staff to develop new strategies in presenting and interpreting art in the AMFA’s gallery and non-gallery spaces, including out-of-doors and throughout the community to broaden the public’s appreciation of art and artists;
- Assists with packing, matting, framing, lighting, and installing of all artwork and exhibitions according to museum best practices;
- Collaborates with the Exhibition Designer and Preparator on the design and production of exhibition casework, internal furniture and specialized mounts; assists in coordinating all aspects of gallery preparation, including the scheduling and supervising of painters, janitors, and other contractors;
- Assists with the handling, packing, displaying and storing of permanent collection artworks according to museum best practices, including the design and manufacture of long-term display and storage solutions for the permanent collection; performs general maintenance and cleaning to artwork and exhibition galleries;
- Assists with the design and fabrication, or coordinates the design and fabrication of special crates, modules, brackets, and traveling frames to meet insurance and museum shipping specifications; selects protective or preservative materials to protect artwork against vibration, moisture, impact, or other hazards during transit;
- Assists with maintaining inventory and safe storage of exhibition cases, tops, platforms, risers, and other exhibition furniture; assists with design and production of new exhibition furniture, as needed;
- Assists in maintaining records and documents of incoming and outgoing shipments, or location of traveling exhibition crates, packing materials and related matter;
- Prepares and attaches written or pictorial instructions for unpacking, storing, or exhibiting artwork;
- Ensures safe working environment and cleanliness of preparatory room, loading docks, and areas in which artwork is processed, moved or stored;
- Pays attention to detail, meets deadlines, and performs other duties, as requested.
CANDIDATE PROFILE:
- Innovative thinker who is able to balance practical and creative methods to meaningfully engage AMFA visitors, the community, and public;
- Flexible, agile, and supportive staff member who embraces diverse points of view and creative problem solving to achieve the institution’s mission and goals;
- Curious, open-minded learner who stays current on museum trends and best practices in the handling and display of art to engage audiences;
- Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from a four-year college or university; 1-2 years of related experience and/or training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
To apply, please submit a cover letter highlighting your interest and a detailed resume to personnel@arkmfa.org
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