Organizer Information
The Leonard & Bina Ellen Art Gallery is a prestigious contemporary art institution located within Concordia University in Montreal. Recognized as a hub for critical research and experimental curatorial practices, the gallery serves both the academic community and the broader international art world. Concordia University itself is consistently ranked as one of Montreal's best employers, offering a multicultural and dynamic environment dedicated to tackling societal challenges through education, culture, and innovation. The gallery is specifically situated on the Sir George Williams campus in the heart of downtown Montreal, a territory historically known as Tiohtià:ke.
Title & Description
Curator of Programming and Collections
The Gallery is seeking a Curator of Programming and Collections to drive the artistic vision and maintain the physical heritage of the institution. This dual-focused role involves developing cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions and public programs while serving as the primary steward for the gallery’s permanent collection. The successful candidate will navigate an interdisciplinary landscape, bridging the gap between academic research and public engagement. A central theme of this tenure will be the integration of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) principles and Indigenous perspectives into the gallery’s long-term programming and acquisition strategies.
The Role Overview
- Salary: $86,034.00 - $102,751.00 per year.
- Contract Type: Full-time contract until January 31, 2031 (with possibility of renewal).
- Reporting To: The Director of the Gallery.
- Union/Association: Under HR Policies for professional staff.
- Department: Ellen Art Gallery, Concordia University.
Position & Tasks
- Programming: Collaborating on the design of exhibitions, publications, and educational activities; specifically managing the Sightings exhibition program.
- Research & Outreach: Conducting extensive networking with artists, researchers, and theorists globally to develop intercultural and interdisciplinary content.
- Collection Management: Administering the permanent collection database, managing internal and external loans (insurance, transport, conservation), and responding to research requests.
- Acquisitions: Proposing new acquisitions every two to three years and evaluating donation offers for the Acquisition Committee.
- Funding: Identifying and targeting grant sources and assisting in the preparation of funding requests.
Categories
The role encompasses several professional and artistic disciplines:
- Curatorial Practices & Museology
- Contemporary Art History
- Collection Management & Conservation
- Archival Research & Writing
Eligibility
- Education: Graduate degree (Master's or PhD) in Art History, Museology, or a related field.
- Experience: 2 to 4 years of professional curatorial experience in a museum/public gallery or as a high-level independent curator.
- Language: Native or near-native fluency (Level 5) in both English and French is mandatory for research and bilingual publication.
- Priority: Canadian citizens and permanent residents are given priority, though all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
- Equity Focus: Applications are strongly encouraged from women, Indigenous people, visible minorities, LGBTQ+ groups, and persons with disabilities.
Program Benefits
Employees at Concordia University receive a comprehensive benefits package:
- Financial Security: Competitive salary and a defined benefit pension plan.
- Wellness: Access to a state-of-the-art gym, health clinic, and on-site wellness facilities.
- Growth: Extensive opportunities for professional development, pedagogical training, and cultural engagement within the university ecosystem.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Cover Letter: Expressing interest and demonstrating how the profile matches the specific gallery requirements.
- Curriculum Vitae: Detailing education, curatorial history, and managing collections.
- Diversity Survey: A voluntary survey provided during the application process.
- Skill Evaluations: Successful candidates will be required to undergo language and computer skill testing.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 January 2026
Location
Montreal, Canada
Additional Details
Candidates should have a strong grasp of 20th-century Canadian and Quebec art history and a deep commitment to the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Knowledge of eco-friendly exhibition design is considered a significant asset.