Current Opportunities

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts seeks their next Curator of Contemporary Art. The selected individual must have experience curating contemporary exhibitions, a heightened interest in 21st century art, and ability to foster and maintain meaningful, respectful, and productive relationships with various PAFA community members and stakeholders.

ABOUT PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is America's first school and museum of fine arts. Located in center city Philadelphia, PAFA is intimate in scale with a strong sense of community. PAFAs undergraduate degree offerings include a BFA in Studio Art and a coordinated BFA with the University of Pennsylvania. Graduate programs include an MFA and Low-Residency MFA degree, and a Post-Baccalaureate certificate. PAFAs museum has an outstanding collection of American art, and the museum actively collects and exhibits contemporary art, including work in new media. Additionally, PAFA is home to the Brodsky Center, a print and papermaking center focused on the creation of innovative editions by contemporary artists.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

Because we were the nations first art museum and art school, we believe PAFA has a moral obligation to ensure that every member of our community can study and work in an environment where they feel a sense of belonging. We have the additional obligation of ensuring that our community reflects that rich tapestry of beauty and diversity that surrounds our world. We are committed to modeling diversity and inclusion for the entire arts, cultural and educational sector, and to maintaining an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all. PAFA is committed to maintaining an inclusive learning environment, and a diverse community of students, faculty and staff.

PAFA is an equal opportunity employer. Women and diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to work in our pluralistic community.

POSITION: Curator of Contemporary Art

Initiate, plan, develop, and implement contemporary art exhibitions. Assume curatorial responsibility for gifts and purchases of artwork, and the care and display of works in the permanent collection, with an emphasis on works of the 21st century, working in tandem with the Curator of 20th Century Art and Chief of Curatorial Affairs. Cultivate private collectors of contemporary art, establish and maintain relationships with contemporary artists. Contribute to an overall programmatic vision for exhibitions and collections at PAFA, working towards a major reinstallation of 18th through 21st century art at PAFA.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Initiate, Plan, coordinate and prepare innovative exhibitions of contemporary art.
• Plan coordinate and prepare permanent collection installations and gallery rotations
• Develop the collection of the 21st Century including identifying and suggesting gifts and purchases.
• Play a leadership role in expanding Artist in Residence programs at PAFA.
• Contribute to successful fundraising and marketing for contemporary art exhibitions and programs.
• Develop and manage contemporary project budgets.
• Build upon positive existing relationships with regional artists.
• Research and catalogue works in the collection made in the 21st century.
• Develop strong internal and external interest in and awareness for contemporary art at PAFA.
• Prepare and present public lectures, programs, gallery talks and tours as applicable.
• Cultivate interest and gifts from collectors of contemporary American art.
• Work closely with curatorial colleagues to enhance PAFAs national reputation as a leader in American art
• Work with the public programs department in planning educational programs.
• Assist with general departmental operations including fielding inquiries, maintaining exhibition schedule and writing and coordinating publications.
• Manage Curatorial interns, fellows, and work study students.
• Ad hoc duties as required.