Primary Purpose: Art Preparator I will collaborate with Registration, Exhibitions, and Curatorial teams to install exhibitions, handle and transport artwork, manage storage, conduct condition assessments, and support conservation efforts. They ensure proper mounting, lighting, and environmental controls while maintaining museum standards for preservation and security.
Responsibilities
*Exhibition Installation Accuracy – Ensuring artworks are mounted, lit, and displayed correctly according to curatorial and conservation guidelines. Prepares artwork for display (e.g. matting, framing, mounting, glazing, installation of hardware.) Installs and de-installs temporary and permanent exhibitions.
*Artwork Handling & Transport Efficiency – Safely packing, moving, and storing artworks with minimal risk of damage or loss. Participates in all phases of art movement within the museum for works in the collection, loans, and incoming and outgoing exhibitions.
*Assists with the preparation of labels and text panels.
*Maintains exhibition and gallery lighting.
*Provides technical support for all exhibitions (e.g. setting up and managing audio-visual equipment, and preparation of temporary walls and exhibition furniture, etc.)
*Storage & Inventory Management – Maintaining organized, secure, and accessible storage spaces for artworks and exhibition materials.
*Condition Reporting & Documentation – Review and interpret reports to monitor artwork status and preservation requirements. Ensure proper handling based on documented information and maintain awareness of collection care protocols. Recognize potential condition issues and notify Registrars or conservators as needed, ensuring proper handling and care of artworks.
*Compliance with Museum Standards & Protocols – Adhering to conservation-approved handling methods, safety regulations, and environmental controls.
*Timely Execution of Projects – Completing installations, deinstallations, and preparation tasks within designated deadlines.
*Prepares artwork for travel (e.g. lining crates, soft packing, etc.). Provides transport as necessary.
*Assists with care of the museum’s collection and collection storage areas.
*Effective Coordination with Departments – Working closely with Curatorial, Registration, Conservation, and Exhibition teams to execute projects seamlessly.
*Problem-Solving & Adaptability – Addressing unforeseen installation challenges and adjusting displays as needed.
*Teamwork & Contribution – Supporting colleagues and fostering a cooperative, efficient work environment.
Requirements
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: •
High School or equivalent education.
Must have at least 1 year of experience in art handling and/or exhibitions installation.
Must be meticulous and able to work as part of a team to accomplish challenging tasks.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: •
BA/BS; background in Museum studies, fine arts, art handling, or a related field is preferred.
Prior Museum experience is strongly preferred.
Carpentry experience.
Audio Visual technology experience.
Matting and framing experience.