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View Full Version : Exhibition Designer/Lead Preparator- Henry Art Gallery, Seattle, WA



erika.katayama
07-03-2014, 10:02 AM
Henry Art Gallery is a museum of contemporary art and ideas where risk-taking and openness to uncertain outcome are valued for their ability to foster inquiry, dialogue, and debate. The Henry is known for being first in the field to champion artists who go on to global acclaim and for premiering and sponsoring new works by artists of note.The Exhibition Designer/Lead Preparator is responsible for translating artist and curator ideas into exhibition design, including installation, fabrication and lighting design, on time and on budget. The incumbent is knowledgeable in museum best practices and has technical expertise in installation and de-installation, packing and unpacking, handling and shipping fine art objects; planning and directing the fabrication of exhibition pedestals and casework, temporary walls and other exhibition materials to artist or curator specifications.This position reports to the Manager of Exhibitions and Registration, serves as Lead for the preparatory crew and works in close cooperation with the curatorial staff, the operations manager, the art and education team as well as exhibiting artists and visiting curators.

Duties include, but are not limited to:


Work collaboratively to fulfill an artist’s and/or curator’s vision, including communicating effectively with all stakeholders, scheduling and attending meetings, creating and distributing floor plans and drawings.
Work closely with the Exhibition Manager and curatorial staff to develop design and installation plans, work schedules and logistics for exhibitions.
In consultation with the Manager of Exhibitions and Registration, schedule and direct the daily activity of the preparators and contract service providers in support of exhibitions, collections and special projects. Hire temporary staff and secure the services of outside vendors as needed.
Direct and maintain exhibition lighting; monitor galleries for the maintenance of exhibition furniture, functioning of electronic and digital equipment, and other installation components.
In consultation with the Manager of Exhibitions and Registration, oversee all aspects of exhibition construction and installation, including moving works of art, constructing exhibit elements, casework and crates, installing and de-installing objects properly and assisting with condition reports.
Foster a safe and productive work environment for preparators and visiting artists.

Responsible for ensuring the safe use of solvents, power tools and other shop equipment. Provide training, as needed.


Research and prepare cost estimates for fabrication, installation and de-installation. Participate in the development of exhibition budgets, including general maintenance of art handling, workshop and lighting.
Lead the preparatory staff and ensure adherence to museum standards of art safety, environmental controls, human resources policies and security. Provide art handling instruction, as needed.
Other duties as may be assigned from time to time.


Job Requirements

Significant, (e.g., typically at least 5 years) progressively responsible experience or equivalent combination of training and experience, preferably in a museum setting. B.A. Degree in arts preferred or equivalent education and experience level.
Demonstrated proficiency of handling valuable works of art in a wide variety of media including but not limited to paintings, bronze, ceramic, glass, metals, mixed media, textiles, works on paper, contemporary art and new media.
Demonstrated proficiency in installation of exhibitions and layout and lighting design.
Ability to move or assist in moving heavy objects (must be able to lift 50 lbs) and ability to operate genie lifts, forklifts, pallet jacks, etc.
Demonstrated proficiency of practices and methods in mount-making including earthquake mitigation and demonstrated ability to apply this knowledge with initiative and judgment, concern for detail, accuracy, and neat execution of work.
Demonstrated skills and knowledge of shop equipment and ability to effectively perform various skilled and semi-skilled tasks, including woodworking, brazing, use of adhesives and fasteners, construction methods, and use of stationary and portable power tools. Experience framing, sheet rocking, taping and painting walls.
Demonstrated skills and knowledge of safe and archival storage materials and techniques for loaned and museum collection objects, including matting and framing, packing and crating.
Proven ability to provide effective leadership, direction and guidance to a team.
Demonstrated teambuilding skills, e.g., facilitating, motivating, communicating, coaching, directing .
Demonstrated skill in prioritizing, problem solving (including workplace conflicts), managing difficult situations.
Proven ability to work collaboratively with a team and work collegially and diplomatically with staff, guest curators and visiting artists, and vendors.
Proficiency with design programs such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, Google Sketch-up highly desirable and familiarity with computer applications in a multi-platform environment including Microsoft Word and Excel.
Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills.
Project management experience a plus.



APPLY FOR THIS JOB

Contact Person:
Human Resources


Email Address:
jobs@henryart.org


Apply URL:
http://www.henryart.org (http://www.henryart.org/)