Organizer Information
Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF) is one of the leading contemporary art institutions in the Middle East and an internationally recognized platform for artistic production, research, exhibitions, education, film, music, and cultural exchange. Based in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, the Foundation was established to support contemporary artistic practices through year-round programming that includes exhibitions, commissions, publications, grants, performances, film screenings, and educational initiatives.
The Foundation is particularly known for organizing the internationally acclaimed Sharjah Biennial, as well as maintaining a dynamic programme of exhibitions and cultural projects that bring together artists, curators, researchers, writers, and cultural practitioners from around the world. Through its commitment to fostering critical dialogue and supporting innovative artistic practices, Sharjah Art Foundation has become a major cultural institution connecting regional and international art communities.
As part of its continued growth and curatorial activities, the Foundation is currently seeking an experienced Assistant Curator to support the development and implementation of exhibitions, artist projects, publications, and related cultural programmes.
Title & Description
Assistant Curator Job at Sharjah Art Foundation
Sharjah Art Foundation is seeking an experienced Assistant Curator to join its curatorial team in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
This full-time position offers an opportunity to work closely with artists, curators, lenders, researchers, institutions, and cultural professionals on the realization of exhibitions and public programmes. The successful candidate will contribute to all stages of exhibition production, from research and budgeting to artist coordination, publication development, installation management, and public engagement.
The role is suited to candidates with substantial experience in contemporary art, curatorial practice, exhibition management, or related cultural fields who are interested in working within one of the region's most influential contemporary art organizations.
The Role Overview
- Position Title: Assistant Curator
- Organization: Sharjah Art Foundation
- Reporting To: Head of Curatorial
- Location: Sharjah Emirate, United Arab Emirates
- Contract Type: Full-Time
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible
- Working Hours:
- Monday to Thursday/ 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Programme Area:
- Curatorial Affairs
- Exhibition Development
- Research and Publications
- Artist and Institutional Relations
Position & Tasks
The Assistant Curator will support the planning, coordination, implementation, and administration of exhibitions and curatorial projects. Primary responsibilities include:
Exhibition Management
- Monitor and maintain exhibition and project budgets.
- Obtain quotations and cost estimates.
- Process invoices and financial documentation.
- Maintain digital and physical budget records.
- Coordinate with the Accounts Team regarding project expenditures.
Artist and Collaborator Coordination
- Act as the primary contact for artists, curators, lenders, researchers, and external collaborators.
- Manage communications and agreements.
- Coordinate travel arrangements and project logistics.
- Support production and installation processes.
Research and Curatorial Development
- Conduct research related to exhibitions and projects.
- Prepare and coordinate loan requests.
- Support artwork borrowing procedures.
- Collaborate with artists and curators on exhibition development.
Publications and Interpretation
- Write, edit, and compile exhibition texts.
- Develop exhibition introductions, artwork descriptions, biographies, wall labels, and interpretive materials.
- Coordinate content production for print and digital platforms.
- Assist in website and publication content management.
Administration and Documentation
- Maintain exhibition databases and checklists.
- Manage guest lists and exhibition records.
- Archive project files and correspondence.
- Prepare briefing materials and exhibition documentation.
Public Engagement and Institutional Representation
- Assist with exhibition openings, tours, VIP events, and public programmes.
- Coordinate with communications teams regarding marketing and publicity.
- Participate in interviews and media activities when required.
- Represent Sharjah Art Foundation at meetings, public events, and networking activities.
Team Coordination
- Supervise trainees, interns, and freelance staff.
- Coordinate across departments to ensure project delivery.
- Support exhibition touring initiatives with partner institutions.
Categories
- Curatorial Practice
- Contemporary Art
- Visual Arts
- Art Management
- Exhibition Management
- Research
- Arts Administration
- Cultural Management
- Writing and Publishing
- Museum and Gallery Practice
Eligibility
Applicants must meet one of the following qualifications:
- Option One
- Master's degree in Fine Arts, Humanities, Social Studies, or a related discipline.
- Minimum five years of relevant professional experience.
- Option Two
- Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Humanities, Social Studies, or a related discipline.
- Minimum eight years of relevant professional experience.
- Ideal candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong curatorial and research skills.
- Experience managing exhibitions and cultural projects.
- Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
- Experience working with artists, institutions, and cultural stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
International applicants may be considered subject to Sharjah Art Foundation hiring procedures.
Program Benefits
- Employment within a globally recognized contemporary art institution.
- Direct involvement in major international exhibitions and cultural projects.
- Opportunities to work with leading artists, curators, and researchers.
- Professional development within a highly respected curatorial environment.
- Experience contributing to one of the Middle East's most influential contemporary art organizations.
- Access to extensive professional networks across the international art sector.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Educational qualifications.
- Professional employment history.
- Portfolio or examples of relevant curatorial work (if requested).
- Contact information.
- Any additional supporting documents requested by Sharjah Art Foundation during recruitment.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: Open until the position is filled.
- Employment Period: Permanent/full-time position subject to Foundation employment policies.
Location
Sharjah Emirate, United Arab Emirates.
Additional Details
- The role involves frequent collaboration with artists, curators, researchers, and partner institutions.
- Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced cultural environment.
- Evening and weekend commitments may be required during exhibition installations, openings, and special events.
- The position combines administrative, research, curatorial, and public-facing responsibilities.
- Experience in international contemporary art contexts is highly advantageous.
- The Foundation reserves the right to close recruitment when a suitable candidate is identified.