Organizer Information
The J. Paul Getty Trust is a cultural and philanthropic institution dedicated to the presentation, conservation, and interpretation of the world’s artistic legacy. Based in Los Angeles at the iconic Getty Center and Getty Villa, the Getty Museum houses a world-renowned collection of European paintings, drawings, manuscripts, sculpture, and decorative arts, alongside photography from around the world. The Museum’s Department of Drawings is recognized for its exceptional holdings of European works from the 15th through the 19th centuries. The Getty is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and engages in extensive international research, digital initiatives, and public programming to make art accessible to global audiences.
Title & Description
Associate Curator of Prints and Drawings
The Getty Museum is seeking a highly skilled and scholarly Associate Curator of Prints and Drawings to join its Department of Drawings. This position is central to the stewardship of the Museum's significant collection of European prints and drawings. The successful candidate will be responsible for the growth, research, and exhibition of the collection, contributing to the Museum’s reputation for excellence in connoisseurship and scholarly inquiry. The Associate Curator will work to interpret these works for a broad audience through innovative exhibitions, scholarly publications, and digital engagement, ensuring the collection remains a vital resource for education and aesthetic enjoyment.
The Role Overview
- Salary: $93,923 – $124,449 annually (commensurate with experience).
- Contract Type: Full-time, Regular.
- Reporting To: Department Head / Senior Curator of Drawings.
- Program: Curatorial Department of Drawings.
Position & Tasks
The Associate Curator is responsible for the professional care and scholarly interpretation of the collection. Key tasks include:
- Collection Growth: Researching and recommending new acquisitions of prints and drawings through purchases and gifts; maintaining relationships with donors and dealers.
- Exhibitions: Conceiving, planning, and organizing major exhibitions and smaller rotations; writing scholarly catalogues, wall texts, and didactics.
- Research: Conducting original research on the collection for publication in journals and online platforms; keeping the collection database updated with the latest scholarship.
- Conservation & Care: Working closely with the Paper Conservation department to monitor the condition of works and determine treatment priorities.
- Public Engagement: Giving lectures, leading tours for VIPs and students, and collaborating with the Education department on public programming.
- Departmental Support: Assisting with administrative tasks, budget monitoring for specific projects, and overseeing the department’s study room activities.
Categories
- Prints and Drawings
- Art History (European)
- Curatorial Studies
- Museum Management
- Research and Writing
Eligibility
- Educational Background: Ph.D. in Art History or a closely related field is typically required.
- Experience: 3–5 years of curatorial experience in a museum or similar scholarly environment, with a demonstrated specialization in European prints and drawings.
- Skills: High-level connoisseurship; excellent research, writing, and public speaking skills; fluency in at least one modern European language (other than English) relevant to the collection.
- International/National: Open to qualified candidates globally (eligibility to work in the U.S. is required).
Program Benefits
- Competitive Compensation: A robust salary range and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Institutional Resources: Access to the world-class Getty Research Institute (GRI) library and leading conservation laboratories.
- Retirement: Employer-sponsored retirement plans.
- Work Environment: Working at the prestigious Getty Center with its unique architectural and garden setting.
- Professional Travel: Opportunities for research and travel related to acquisitions and exhibition planning.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- CV/Resume: Detailing academic background, publications, and exhibition history.
- Cover Letter: Outlining specific expertise in prints and drawings and interest in the Getty.
- Writing Sample: Often requested during the shortlist phase (scholarly article or exhibition text).
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: Open until filled (candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible).
- Anticipated Start Date: Early to mid-2026.
Location
Los Angeles, California, United States
Additional Details
The Getty Trust is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. This role requires a candidate who is both a rigorous scholar and a collaborative team player, capable of working across various museum departments to bring the collection to life for a modern audience.