Organizer Information
Curatorial Assistant at MoMA roles are based at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), founded in 1929 in New York City and internationally recognized as a leading institution for modern and contemporary art. MoMA holds one of the most comprehensive collections of modern painting and sculpture, with approximately 4,000 works dating from the late 19th century to the present. Through exhibitions, educational programs, publications, and its library, archives, and conservation departments, the museum promotes critical engagement with modern and contemporary art for global audiences.
These positions are typically situated within the Painting and Sculpture Department, which leads MoMA’s curatorial initiatives in acquisitions, exhibitions, and scholarship. The department has recently placed increased emphasis on expanding representation of underrepresented regions and narratives, including African modernism. Curatorial Assistants support this work through research, exhibition development, and collection-related tasks, contributing to the department’s broader curatorial and scholarly objectives.
Title & Description
Curatorial Assistant, Painting and Sculpture (focus on African Modernism)
This full-time, on-site curatorial staff position supports the Department of Painting and Sculpture at MoMA, with a specialized focus on African Modernism to aid in the development and realization of an upcoming major exhibition centered on this theme. The role involves assisting senior curators across all curatorial activities, including in-depth research, exhibition planning, publications, collection management, loans, acquisitions, and public engagement. It provides hands-on experience in a world-class museum environment, contributing to rigorous scholarship and innovative programming that highlights mid-20th-century African art within the broader narrative of global modernism. The position emphasizes administrative and research support to ensure the successful execution of high-profile projects, while building expertise in African modernist works from the Museum's collection and related archives. This opportunity suits candidates passionate about advancing the visibility and contextual understanding of African art in modern and contemporary frameworks.
The Role Overview
- Job Salary: $71,979 (gross) per annum
- Contract Type: Full-Time, permanent staff position (unionized, represented by Local 2110, UAW, AFL-CIO)
- Reporting to: The Steven and Lisa Tananbaum Curator, Department of Painting and Sculpture
- Curator/Programme: Department of Painting and Sculpture; focus on supporting an upcoming exhibition on African Modernism
- Location: On-site in New York, NY 10019, USA
Position & Tasks
The Curatorial Assistant assists senior curators in research, planning, organization, and execution of exhibitions; writes and edits publications, wall texts, and object labels; researches and catalogs collection/archival materials; handles exhibition logistics (bibliographic/checklist research, loans, publication production, website content, public programs); maintains collection/loans and coordinates with conservation/registration; serves as liaison with external partners and internal departments; supports potential acquisitions through research and communications; stays current on field developments and makes recommendations; conducts daily gallery inspections and damage follow-ups; answers inquiries and leads gallery tours; and performs other related duties.
Categories
Visual Art, Painting, Sculpture, Curatorial Practice (with emphasis on modern and contemporary art, African Modernism)
Eligibility
Open to candidates meeting the requirements; international applicants eligible (though on-site in New York required). Preferred: specialized knowledge of mid-century African art/modernism. No specific restrictions noted on age, gender, nationality, or emerging status, but professional museum experience and academic qualifications are required. MoMA is an equal opportunity employer adhering to comprehensive non-discrimination policies under U.S. and New York City laws.
Program Benefits
- Competitive salary of $71,979 gross per annum
- Unionized position with associated benefits and protections (via Local 2110, UAW, AFL-CIO; specific benefits not detailed in posting but typically include health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, etc., for full-time staff)
- Professional development in a leading global museum
- Hands-on involvement in major exhibitions, acquisitions, and scholarship
- Networking with artists, dealers, collectors, and curators
- Contribution to expanding the representation of African modernism in institutional collections
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Resume/CV
- Statement of interest (cover letter; applications without this will not be considered)
- Curatorial writing samples encouraged (strongly recommended)
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 11 January 2026
Location
New York, NY, United States
Additional Details
This is a unionized staff position, not an open call for independent artists, residency, or freelance project. It is an employment opportunity for curatorial professionals. Familiarity with The Museum System (TMS) is helpful but not required. Candidates should have superior research/writing skills and French proficiency. MoMA emphasizes diversity and inclusion in hiring.