Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center seeks a skilled, experienced professional for the position of Registrar during a period of growth, as we transition into a new building in fall 2019. The first project will be a major inaugural exhibition of contemporary artists working in all media, including new media. The successful candidate will report to the Curatorial and Exhibitions Director and work with the entire Exhibitions Department to complete the needs of a loan exhibition from the planning stages through installation and dispersal. Oklahoma Contemporary is a non-collecting institution.
The main focus of this position will be the coordination of shipping arrangements and loans, incoming and outgoing condition reporting, packing and unpacking of artworks and assisting in the installation of a broad range of contemporary artworks from delicate works on paper to large sculptural installations. The Registrar will work closely with the Exhibitions Manager, Installation Crew, Exhibitions Department and Operations Staff.
Essential Job Functions
- Administration of exhibition documents, including condition reports, insurance certificates and loan agreements
- Detailed execution of condition reports for outgoing and incoming exhibition loans
- Taking detailed packing notes of incoming works, including crate identification and visual as well as written documentation at every stage of unpacking
- Oversee load-out and delivery of crates, making sure that all pieces are clearly labeled and accounted for on the way in or out
- Work integrally with the installation crew on the gallery floors to ensure that extreme care is being taken with the handling of each object and that the movement of crates and other activities taking place on the gallery floor is done so in an organized manner to mitigate all risk to artworks
- Assist with installation as needed
- Work with Exhibition Manager to develop and monitor exhibition budgets
- Communicate with lenders and coordinate insurance with OCAC’s insurance brokers or with the lender’s insurance company, if applicable; coordinate packing/crating/installation requirements with the lender, courier and installation logistics and transport. Communicate changes regarding loan status and/or schedule with the lenders
- Monitor all exhibition artwork for the duration and tour of the exhibition and update lenders as requested with climate or hygrothermograph readings
- Work with Curatorial Fellow to maintain accurate exhibition and loan files, in paper and online
- Serve as point person for incoming traveling exhibitions
- Help coordinate Oklahoma Contemporary-organized traveling exhibitions and accompany exhibition to each venue if necessary
- Position requires occasional work on weekends and evenings as necessary.
Job Requirements
- Three to five years’ experience within the Registrar department of an art museum or major contemporary gallery, including experience with responsibilities noted above
- Must have extensive knowledge of AAM’s and ARC’s registration standards
- Broad knowledge of and experience with contemporary art
- Excellent communication skills
- Highly organized and detail oriented
- Extremely conscientious about meeting goals and deadlines and achieving best practices in all aspects of position
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite including Excel is required
- Experience with Filemaker Pro is preferred
Salary
- Salary commensurate with experience; excellent benefits package which includes healthcare, dental, vision and a 403b matching plan.
- Full-time; exempt
Limitations and Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
Other Requirements and Working Conditions
- Use of a car required; legally registered and insured for daily use
- Use of a computer/monitor, telephone and copier daily
- Willingness to work evenings and weekends
- Team environment with frequent group meeting participation
- Physical requirements: Lifting/Carrying - heavy work may include routine lifting of a maximum weight of 50 lbs. Combination of sitting, standing, walking and driving on a frequent basis
To Apply
Submit the following to jscanlan@okcontemp.org:
- Resume
- Cover letter addressing your interest
- Names of three references with contact information
Please indicate Registrar on subject line of email. Position is open until filled; preference will be given to applications received by Feb. 8, 2019.
Oklahoma Contemporary is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.
About Oklahoma Contemporary
Oklahoma Contemporary is a non-collecting, multidisciplinary art center that features innovative work by living artists. Programming includes three major components: 1) a varied exhibition schedule, in the Center’s galleries and in our public art space Campbell Art Park; 2) a robust educational program for all ages, with classes and studio space for weaving, ceramics, photography and painting (options slated to expand in the new building); 3) performances, screenings and events, both produced by Oklahoma Contemporary and in partnership with other organizations. Oklahoma Contemporary aims for inclusivity in its programming and outreach.
About Oklahoma City
In the middle of its third decade of an enormously successful urban renewal plan, Oklahoma City is in a period of exciting growth. This growth has spurred developments in the city’s recreation and nightlife, with the construction of new parks, bike trails, restaurants, breweries and bars. In the urban core, commercial centers have been developed, revitalizing residential neighborhoods with charming historic houses (though the housing remains some of the most affordable in the nation). The construction of Oklahoma Contemporary’s new building represents a significant commitment on the part of the city and its inhabitants to a new era in contemporary culture.
