This position is identified as a special measures role open to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants.
The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is the Northern Territory’s premier cultural and scientific institution. It offers a dynamic and diverse arts, science and cultural program to more than 300,000 visitors each year.
We are the museum and gallery known for our collections and expertise in Aboriginal cultures, natural sciences, histories and arts across Northern and Central Australia and our neighbours to the north.
We connect people to the stories of the Northern Territory. Our collection drives curiosity, exploration and partnerships. Our physical spaces are destinations loved by locals and a must-see for Territory visitors. Our digital connectivity expands the reach of our collection. Our guests tell their friends about their distinctive Territorian experience.
MAGNT has seven venues: Bullocky Point, the Defence of Darwin Experience, Fannie Bay Gaol, Lyons Cottage, the Museum of Central Australia (incorporating the Strehlow Research Centre), Megafauna Central and the Alcoota fossil site. A new Art Gallery opening in Darwin’s CBD in 2023 will add an eighth MAGNT site.
Primary Objective
This position will form a key part of the curatorial team responsible for the development and delivery of a compelling curatorial program for the new State Square Art Gallery, due to open to the public in 2023. As well as successful delivery of exhibitions for the grand opening of the gallery, the role will contribute to a dynamic ongoing forward calendar of temporary, travelling and permanent exhibitions, including MAGNT’s annual Telstra NATSIAA.
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the delivery of high quality, creative and audience-focussed exhibitions for the State Square Art Gallery, as well as art-based and interdisciplinary curatorial projects across all MAGNT sites.
- Develop and maintain professional networks and partnerships with external stakeholders including project partners, other cultural organisations, community groups and researchers.
- Work with the Senior Curator of Art and the Development Manager in identifying and securing income from grants and donors.
- Contribute to, participate in and deliver public program and education activities as agreed with the Visitor Experience Coordinator.
- Undertake assessment and cataloguing of the collections and monitor display, valuation, conservation and restoration activities.
- Conduct high-level research on the art collections, and produce and maintain documentation that enhances interpretation and knowledge of these collections.
- Provide expert advice regarding MAGNT’s art collections in response to queries from internal and external stakeholders.
- Maintain and promote EEO, cultural diversity, WH&S and ethical principles and practices.
Selection Criteria
- Degree (or equivalent) in art history or visual art combined with relevant curatorial experience and expertise in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art
- Experience in the development and delivery of interpretation activities such as public programs, exhibitions and publications.
- High level oral and written communication skills, with proven ability to tailor communications to different audiences.
- Self-motivated and energetic with a demonstrated ability to collaborate with others, work to brief and to deadline.
- Knowledge of art collection development, management and conservation.
- An ability to interact effectively with people of different cultures and beliefs, whilst building relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including artists, art dealers, donors, other galleries and the media.
- Sound understanding of Work Health Safety (WHS) practises to ensure WHS system compliance.
Desirable:
- Advanced Degree in art history or visual art
- Experience in the development of a new-build museum or gallery facility
Additional:
- This role statement is intended to provide an overall view of the role but in addition to this document, the specifics of the role will be described in business work plans.
- This job requires some weekend and out-of-hours work.
- MAGNT promotes flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.
- MAGNT is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace.
Further Information
Applications must address the selection criteria and include three referee contacts.
Referees will not be contacted without prior consent.
For further information please visit our website at www.magnt.net.au/careers
Submit applications via email: [email protected] by 31 March 2021
