Gallery Director/Assistant Professor

Closing Date:

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that's redefining higher education. We're on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. We're committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas's rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state's varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Required Education and/or Work Experience: Terminal Degree in Studio Art, Art History, Museum Studies, Curatorial studies, or related field. Minimum two years art gallery or museum experience.

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience:Experience developing programming and outreach associated with visual art and design education. Knowledge of contemporary art.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Initiate, develop, manage, and promote campus gallery exhibitions and activities.

• Provide stewardship and oversight of the University permanent collection: conservation, documentation, storage, research and acquisition of works.

• Comply with and refine collection management policies and procedures.

• Engage campus and community through diverse programming, educational outreach, and community relations.

• Work collaboratively with the Department of Art & Design, as an academic home unit, both in development and delivery of curriculum, and in supporting the academic goals of the Department.

• Support in collaboration with the Art & Design department Artist in Residence program

• Teach at least one class each year i n area of museum practice, studies, art handling, or related fields.

• Develop and steward donor and budget resources.

• Collaborate on grant-writing projects.

• Manage budget and day-to-day operations; keep detailed records.

• Develop and submit annual report.

• Design and install exhibitions.

Other Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Recruit, train, and supervise gallery assistants.

• Oversight of the Gallery and campus exhibition spaces.

• Maintain professional and ethical standards in administration of duties.

• Maintain strong working relationship with faculty and staff.

• Responsible for working with community leaders to promote the Visual Arts.

• Maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders

• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates.

• Requires consistent on-time attendance.

• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to act with tact and diplomacy in interaction with others

• Ability to work in a robust academic and artistic environment with excellent organizational and detail-oriented skills

• Knowledge of basic conservation and care of artwork

• Knowledge of current exhibition practices and requirements: generally recognized good practices

• Ability to perform basic handskills, including use of hand and power tools

• Knowledge of contemporary art

• Familiarity with relevant social media platforms

• Ability to prioritize and plan work activities; use time efficiently; and develop realistic action plans, meet deadlines.

• Ability to work with local and regional community partners to promote art and art education

• Ability to connect and engage diverse groups on campus and the wider community

• Excellent oral and written communication skills

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: Collaboration with Art & Design Department Head and Book Arts Director, Art & Design Faculty, and staff in Facilities and University Advancement departments. Administrative support through the Art & Design Administrative Specialist. Supervise gallery assistants, student workers.

List Employees Supervised: Student Workers

Special Job Dimensions: Some travel may be required. Position requires regular use of ladders, hand tools, working with lighting fixtures, and lifting. Late afternoon/evening/weekend activities will be required.

Background Check Requirements. Include background checks to be completed for this position.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, and/or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.