Organizer Information
Powerhouse Arts (PHA) is a prominent not-for-profit organization based in Brooklyn, New York, dedicated to the service of creative expression and the advancement of artistic practices. Housed in a meticulously designed, purpose-built facility—formerly a historic power plant—the organization serves as a central hub for a vast network of art and fabrication professionals, educators, and community members. PHA provides state-of-the-art fabrication services, production spaces, and specialized workshops for artisans across various disciplines. By fostering a collaborative environment, Powerhouse Arts strives to co-create and share practices that are essential to the well-being of artists and the diverse communities they serve. In recent years, the building has transformed into a vibrant center for public performance, learning, and large-scale art production.
Title & Description
Associate Curator
Powerhouse Arts is currently seeking a dynamic and visionary Associate Curator to play a pivotal role in establishing and building a new exhibition program from the ground up. This opportunity is designed for a professional with a deep working knowledge of contemporary art who is passionate about supporting artists throughout their creative lifecycle. The Associate Curator will lead the prestigious Artists-in-Residence (AiR) program and the Artist Subsidy Program (ASP), ensuring that participating artists have the resources and institutional support needed to thrive. Beyond residency management, the role involves conceiving, researching, and executing innovative exhibitions and public programs that align with PHA’s mission of inclusivity and social engagement. This position offers a unique chance to shape the curatorial voice of a growing institution and contribute to a vibrant, community-centered artistic environment.
The Role Overview
- Salary: $80,000 – $90,000 (commensurate with experience).
- Contract Type: Full-time.
- Reporting To: Vice President of Curatorial and Arts Programs.
- Key Programs: Artists-in-Residence (AiR) and Artist Subsidy Program (ASP).
- Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, employer-sponsored retirement plan, generous paid vacation, and a Citi Bike membership.
Position & Tasks
The Associate Curator will balance administrative leadership with creative curatorial work. Primary tasks include:
- Program Management: Overseeing the daily operations of the AiR and ASP, including the artist selection process, contract administration, stipend disbursements, and residency logistics.
- Exhibition Production: Coordinating all aspects of the annual AiR exhibition and other curatorial projects—from research and loan negotiation to installation planning and writing didactic wall texts.
- Collaboration: Working across departments such as Fabrication, Public Art, and Learning & Engagement to integrate curatorial efforts with the facility’s technical capabilities.
- Public Engagement: Developing exhibition-related public programs, including artist talks, workshops, and open studio events to connect PHA with the broader public.
- Strategic Planning: Contributing to the long-term vision of PHA’s curatorial programs and supporting grant writing and funding proposals.
Categories
- Curatorial Practice
- Visual Art
- Arts Administration
- Socially Engaged Art
- Contemporary Art Exhibition Design
Eligibility
This is a professional call primarily focused on candidates eligible to work in the United States (specifically New York). PHA is a safe, inclusive workplace and explicitly encourages applications from:
- Underrepresented Groups: Individuals from marginalized perspectives or nontraditional backgrounds.
- Experienced Professionals: Those with 3–7 years of experience in curatorial or residency program management.
- Collaborative Thinkers: Candidates with a deep understanding of art practices that engage with current social and political conditions.
Program Benefits
- Competitive Salary: Financial stability within a prestigious NYC art institution.
- Resource Access: Access to world-class fabrication and production facilities.
- Mentorship & Leadership: A high-level role reporting directly to the VP of Curatorial Programs, providing significant institutional influence.
- Community: Participation in an expansive network of art professionals, fabricators, and community partners in Brooklyn.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Resume/CV: Highlighting relevant curatorial and administrative experience.
- Cover Letter: Explaining your interest in Powerhouse Arts and how your skills align with the role.
- Writing Sample: A published essay, exhibition proposal, or description of a residency initiative that demonstrates your curatorial interests.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 4 January 2026
- Interviews: To be scheduled shortly after the deadline for qualified candidates.
- Start Date: Early 2025.
Location
Brooklyn, New York, United States
Additional Details
Powerhouse Arts values flexibility and a problem-solving orientation. Candidates do not need to meet 100% of the listed requirements; those who meet approximately 80% or have transferable skills in socially engaged art practice are encouraged to apply. This role is essential for an individual who thrives in an "emergent environment" and enjoys building programs from the ground up.