Organizer Information
The Colby College Museum of Art, located in Waterville, Maine, is a leading primary institution for American and contemporary art. As a teaching museum within a top-tier liberal arts college, it serves as a laboratory for art scholarship, practice, and community engagement. The museum houses a world-class collection, including the Lunder Collection of American Art, and operates in close partnership with the Lunder Institute for American Art. Through its ambitious exhibitions, research initiatives, and public programs, the Museum explores how the idea of "America" is understood, interpreted, and shared globally.
Title & Description
Chief Curator
The Colby College Museum of Art is seeking a visionary and collaborative Chief Curator to join its senior leadership team during a significant period of institutional growth. The Chief Curator is responsible for directing the museum's curatorial strategy, defining a vision grounded in contemporary life, and ensuring the continued relevance of the museum’s artistic program. This high-level leadership role involves overseeing the curatorial contribution to the museum's artistic and interpretive vision, managing a team of ambitious curators, and serving as a key advocate for the museum’s mission both on campus and internationally.
The Role Overview
- Salary: $130,000 – $150,000 annually.
- Contract Type: Full-time, Regular, Exempt.
- Reporting To: Director of the Colby Museum.
- Team Leadership: Oversees a curatorial staff of five full-time members and student interns.
- Collaborations: Key partners include the Director of Exhibitions and Publications, the Engagement team, and the Lunder Institute for American Art.
Position & Tasks
- Curatorial Strategy: Define and implement a curatorial vision that prioritizes engagement with diverse communities and fosters scholarship.
- Collection Development: Lead long-term strategy for acquisitions and deaccessions; direct the full acquisitions cycle in collaboration with the Board’s Collections and Impact Committee.
- Exhibition Planning: Plan a robust, multi-year exhibition schedule, including traveling shows and permanent collection rotations.
- Mentorship: Supervise and mentor the curatorial team, fostering a collaborative, high-performing, and inclusive work environment.
- Scholarship: Produce and edit scholarly publications, essays, and digital content; serve as a liaison to the Art Department and faculty.
- Donor Relations: Cultivate relationships with artists, collectors, and donors to secure gifts of art and funding for major initiatives.
Categories
- Curatorial Leadership
- American Art History
- Contemporary Art
- Arts Administration
- Academic Museum Practice
Eligibility
- Education: Master’s degree in Art History or a related field (Ph.D. often preferred).
- Professional Experience: 7+ years of experience in the arts/education sector and 5+ years of progressive leadership experience.
- Expertise: Deep knowledge of American Art History is required, along with a track record of working with living artists and managing complex exhibition cycles.
- International/National: Open to qualified candidates globally (must meet U.S. employment eligibility).
Program Benefits
- Competitive Compensation: High-tier salary range ($130k–$150k).
- Comprehensive Benefits: Includes health, dental, vision insurance, and employer-sponsored retirement plans typical of Colby College.
- Professional Growth: Opportunity to lead in a prestigious academic museum during a period of transformation.
- Resource Access: Partnership with the Lunder Institute for research and field-wide dialogue.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Cover Letter: Articulating interest in the position and past related experience.
- Resume/CV: Highlighting leadership, exhibitions, and scholarly achievements.
- References: Names and contact info for three professional references.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: February 6, 2026.
- Start Date: Early to mid-2026.
Location
Waterville, Maine, United States
Additional Details
The Chief Curator must model Colby’s values of equity and access in all management practices and program developments. This role is ideal for a curator who thrives in a liberal arts environment and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of art scholars.