Organizer Information
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), founded in 1877 in Providence, RI, is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges of art and design in the United States. Its integral component, the RISD Museum, houses a world-class collection of more than 100,000 objects ranging from ancient times to the present. The Museum is committed to the principles of social equity, inclusion, and environmental justice, serving as a vital cultural hub for both the academic community and the general public. It encourages expansive thinking and critical exchange, empowering artists and scholars to challenge the ideas that shape our world.
Title & Description
Curator of Asian Art
The RISD Museum is seeking a visionary and experienced Curator of Asian Art to lead the development, interpretation, and care of its significant Asian Art collection. This is the sole curatorial-track position within the department, offering a unique opportunity to shape the narrative of Asian art within a leading art and design institution. The successful candidate will create compelling exhibitions, produce scholarly publications, and integrate the collection into the Museum’s teaching and educational programs. The role emphasizes making the collection accessible and inclusive, aligning with the Museum’s strategic plan to engage diverse audiences and advance social equity.
The Role Overview
- Salary/Grade: Grade 550EX (Salary commensurate with experience)
- Contract Type: Full-time, Regular (35 hours per week, 12 months per year)
- Reporting To: Chief Curator / Museum Director
- Work Modality: Hybrid Eligible
- Budgetary Responsibility: Oversight of project-specific budgets and grant-funded work plans.
Position & Tasks
The Curator is responsible for the holistic lifecycle of the Asian Art department. Key tasks include:
- Collection Development: Identifying and recommending purchases, gifts, and deaccessions; maintaining relationships with dealers and donors.
- Exhibitions & Research: Developing and implementing exhibition programs, writing interpretive texts, and conducting original research for publication.
- Collection Care: Collaborating with conservation and registration teams to ensure proper storage, documentation, and preservation of objects.
- Education & Engagement: Teaching with the collection for RISD faculty and students, and answering scholarly inquiries from the public.
- Fundraising: Assisting the Development office in identifying supporters and preparing grant applications.
Categories
- Asian Art (Historical objects and periods)
- Curatorial Practice
- Museum Studies
- Art History
- Research & Writing
Eligibility
This is an international-facing professional call. Candidates must possess:
- A Master’s degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Art History or a related field.
- A minimum of 7 years of curatorial experience.
- Fluency in a language relevant to the area of Asian Art expertise.
- A proven record of scholarly publications and/or curated exhibitions.
- A commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within a museum setting.
Program Benefits
- Professional Growth: Leadership of a dedicated departmental collection within a world-renowned institution.
- Resources: Access to RISD’s extensive academic resources, specialized conservation labs, and a global network of alumni and scholars.
- Collaborative Environment: Opportunity to work in a cross-disciplinary setting with artists, designers, and educators.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and institutional benefits package provided by Rhode Island School of Design.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Resume/CV: Detailing professional experience, publications, and exhibitions.
- Cover Letter: Outlining interest in the role and alignment with RISD’s mission.
- Finalist Requirement: Candidates selected as finalists will be asked to submit a formal presentation.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: Open until filled (Posted recently; early application is encouraged).
- Start Date: To be negotiated upon selection.
- Work Schedule: 12-month annual cycle.
Location
Providence, Rhode Island, United States
Additional Details
The successful candidate will be required to meet pre-employment background screening requirements. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourages applications from female, LGBTQ+, and minority candidates to ensure the curatorial voice reflects a global perspective.