Assistant Curator, Moving Image

Minneapolis, MN

The Walker Art Center empowers people to experience the transformative possibilities of the art and ideas of our time and to imagine the world in new ways. In our over 125-year history, we have become one of the most celebrated art museums in the country and we are known for our innovative presentations and acclaimed collections of contemporary art across the spectrum of the visual, performing, and media arts.

The Assistant Curator is responsible for advancing the Walker’s mission by assisting with, conceptualizing, organizing, and implementing screening and events for the moving image program. The Assistant Curator will research, develop and manage projects, both independently and in partnership with the Director and Curator, for the Walker Cinema, Bentson Mediatheque, and other spaces. They will oversee major recurring annual programs, assist in grant writing and other funding proposals, and collaborate on written program materials. Alongside curatorial duties, the Assistant Curator’s responsibilities also include general program and department administration and management.


WHAT YOU GET TO DO

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Research, develop, and implement moving image programming such as screenings and artist talks in partnership with Director and Curator.
  • Lead and administer major annual recurring programs (British Arrows and Spirit Awards)
  • Introduce, host, and attend programs as required.
  • Identify print sources and rights holders. Manage bookings, artist contracts, and artists travel in partnership with Department Coordinator
  • Work with Director and Curator of Moving Image to develop and maintain a comprehensive department budget and monitor expense and income projections for each project.  Prepare annual budgeting reports and mid-year re-projections.
  • Co-develop and sustain community-focused partnerships that engage, participate in, and center the many different communities the Walker serves.
  • Contribute to the development, writing, editing, and organizing of written program content in print and digital, press releases, and other marketing, promotion and curatorial texts as needed.
  • Liaise with the Walker’s content and communications staff to produce, review, and approve Moving Image promotional materials.
  • Attend institutional scheduling meetings and other interdisciplinary and coordinating committees to support larger Walker initiatives and priorities.
  • Facilitate interdisciplinary Walker projects and efforts as aligned with our institutional priorities, including accessibility, DEI, business development, etc. 
  • Foster and maintain good communications and working relationships with local/national/international artists; and local/national/international colleagues, including festivals, museums, galleries, academics, arts organizations, community partners, and others.

WHAT WE NEED IN YOU 

QUALIFICATIONS            

  • 2+ years of active curatorial experience developing Moving Image programming in cinemas, festivals, galleries, museums, or other contemporary art platforms is required.
  • A solid knowledge of contemporary Moving Image art and artists which may come through professional experience or an academic degree
  • Experience organizing and monitoring budgets in Excel.
  • Experience with project management platforms, such as AirTable.
  • Must possess excellent interpersonal skills to effectively engage and collaborate with artists, colleagues, audiences, and community members.
  • Excellent oral and written communications skills required, including occasional public speaking and proficiency writing for different audiences (general, marketing, scholarly/curatorial).
  • Ability to organize, conceptualize, and effectively prioritize a variety of projects simultaneously is essential.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS This position is considered full-time (35 hours per week), exempt. As an exempt position, it is not eligible for overtime pay. The minimum compensation for this role is $55,000 annually. The Walker offers a wide range of benefits for both part-time and full-time employees.

This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.

All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship. 

Walker’s DEI commitment The Walker is committed to being an employer with a staff who, at all job levels, reflects the rich diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring inclusion and equity in all our employment practices. We deeply value and welcome all the unique lived experiences in our applicants and encourage anyone meeting the minimum requirements to apply.

Recruitment Timeline All positions are open until filled.