Purpose of engagement
The Australian Museum (AM) is looking to engage a First Nations Assistant Curator to participate in an Australian Museum’s special exhibition
About the Australian Museum
The Australian Museum (AM) operates within the NSW Department of Premier & Cabinet and was founded in 1827 as the first museum in Australia. The AM provides access, engagement and scientific research to increase our understanding of natural history and culture, particularly of the Australasian region. The AM holds more than 21 million objects of biological, geological and cultural collections and develops programs, exhibitions and school and community education initiatives onsite, online and offsite. The AM’s purpose is to make nature, Indigenous cultures & science accessible and relevant to everyone.
For more information, visit the website.
The AM supports a diverse workforce and promotes applications from First Nation and Torres Strait Islander people. People with disabilities who meet the selection criteria are encouraged to apply; and where required, Australian Museum will implement reasonable adjustment consistent with industry standard.
About the role
The First Nations Assistant Curator will work with the First Nations Curator and the team to assist with the research, interpretation, development of a special exhibition, led by First Nations staff within the Australian Museum. This role offers a significant opportunity to develop a curatorial capabilities and work with one of Australia’s leading cultural institutions, and to assist in the development curatorial and public programs of local, state and international relevance.
The Australian Museum’s The 2020 Project (working title) is a First Nations-led response to the upcoming anniversary in 2020 of James Cook’s voyage on the HMB Endeavour along Australia’s eastern coastline during 1770.
From June to November 2018, the First Nation’s Curator planned and conducted community consultation with First Nations peoples, initially in New South Wales communities.
The forthcoming exhibition is the centrepiece of The 2020 Project, and is due to show in the second half of 2020 at the Australian Museum.
Essential Requirements
As the successful candidate, you will demonstrate:
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent – Aboriginality/Torres Strait Islander is a genuine occupational qualification and is authorised under section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977
- An understanding of First Nations arts and cultural practices locally and nationally.
- Strong connections to First Nations Communities.
- Knowledge of principles, practices, standards and ethics relating to the interpretation and development of cultural collections.
- Experience in research, selection and preparation of material culture leading to public outcomes including exhibitions, displays and online content
- Experience in contributing to curatorial projects delivered on time and within budget
- Appropriate tertiary qualifications or relevant, equivalent professional experience.
- Adequate knowledge and experience in order to deliver the Key Accountabilities and perform to the Focus Capabilities outlined in this Role Description
For more information or to apply visit: JobsNSW.
