Jeannette G. McKean Curatorial Fellow of American Art

The Curatorial Fellowship is designed to broaden the experience of scholars embarking on professional careers in art history who are considering the museum profession. The Jeannette G. McKean Curatorial Fellow of American Art will actively contribute to both the curatorial and collection programs at the Morse and participate regularly in the Collection, Exhibition, and Editorial committees, with special responsibility for paintings, works on paper, and sculpture. The Curatorial Fellow will contribute to a future collection catalog by developing at least 15 catalog entries for paintings, works on paper, or sculpture in the Museum’s permanent collection. They will also have the opportunity to propose and prepare an exhibition at the Museum.

The Museum is widely known for its extensive Tiffany collection, but its holdings include American art pottery, design, and nineteenth- and early twentieth-century American paintings, sculpture, and works on paper. Jeannette Genius McKean (1909–89) founded the Museum in 1942 and named it for her industrialist grandfather. Hugh F. McKean (1908–95), the Museum’s first Director from its founding until his death, believed in the unity of art stating that “any work sincerely made deserves and rewards sincere appreciation.” The Museum is a benefaction, and as stewards of the benefaction, all members of staff work together to honor the McKeans’ legacy. The position requires a keen understanding of the distinctive nature of the Museum, its history, and the experience it offers visitors.

Qualifications

Candidates must meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role.

·       MA in Art History; PhD preferred.

·       In-depth knowledge of American art and art history with particular emphasis on painting, sculpture, and works on paper created between 1830–1930.

·       Curatorial or related experience helpful; interest in expanding narratives through creative contrast and comparison.

·       Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.

·       Proven presentation and collaboration skills.

·       Knowledge of conservation and art handling for painting, sculpture, and works on paper.

·       Demonstrated experience working both independently and as part of a team.

·       Commitment to complete projects on time, within budget, and with respect to the deadlines of others.

Curatorial and Collection Activities

The Curatorial Fellow will work closely with the Hugh F. McKean Curator on ongoing projects and will participate in a broad range of activities focusing on American paintings, sculpture, works on paper, Morse/Genius/McKean family art, Florida art, and related library and archives between 1830–1930.

·       Conduct object-based research and cataloging of the collection.

·       Establish connections between the focus area and the broader Morse collection.

·       Develop a timeline and story of the collection’s development from the Morse family in the nineteenth century to the present, concentrating on areas of specialty.

·       Determine gaps within specialty. Define possible acquisitions.

·       Propose, plan, and work with the Exhibition Committee to carry out a small exhibition from the Museum’s collection reflecting research.

·       Use TMS by Gallery Systems to supplement object catalog information, to organize and update exhibitions (past, current, and future), to record events (curatorial and historic), and to document sites specific to specialty.

·       Work with Registrar on conservation proposals and long-term planning.

·       Contribute to efforts in the digitization of the permanent collection.

·       Participate in departmental planning (budgeting, maintenance, and long term).

·       Participate in Museum projects as assigned—social media, tours, education, publications, and product development.

Application Procedures

Please apply to officeservicesmanager@morsemuseum.org with a letter of interest and a résumé or curriculum vitae. Complete applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, starting March 31, 2025, and continuing until the position is filled.

Upon review of initial applications, successful candidates will be notified to submit two letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents including transcripts and writing samples.

Additional Information

The term of this fellowship is September 2, 2025, through August 28, 2026. Starting at $35,000 contract.