Collection Assistant

Collection Assistant

Wakefield Part-Time Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Help catalogue and digitise art collections while promoting Ronald Moody's work.
  • Company: Join The Hepworth Wakefield, a leading UK public art gallery with a vibrant community focus.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options, part-time hours, and be part of a Living Wage Employer.
  • Why this job: Engage with contemporary art and contribute to meaningful projects that impact the community.
  • Qualifications: No specific experience required; passion for art and organisation skills are key.
  • Other info: Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged, and support for disabled applicants is available.

The Hepworth Wakefield has welcomed 3 million visitors since opening in May 2011 and is now established as one of the most successful public art galleries in the UK, attracting critical acclaim and audiences from around the world. We present an ambitious programme of major exhibitions of the best international modern and contemporary art, alongside innovative displays drawn from Wakefield’s growing art collection. Central to our work is our learning programme that engages schools, families, adults and local community groups through inspiring creative learning opportunities.

In 2019, we opened The Hepworth Wakefield Garden, designed by Tom Stuart-Smith, to complement our David Chipperfield-designed gallery and provide an inspiring public garden, free for all to enjoy. We have recently been joined by neighbours Tileyard North, who have developed the 19th century mill complex opposite the gallery into a vibrant hub for the creative industries. We are now embarking upon two capital projects to complete our wider waterfront site, including returning our much-loved playground and creating a workshop and yard space for our Gardener and her team of volunteers.

We are committed to improving diversity within our organisation and we welcome and encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented within the arts sector. Our inclusive recruitment practices include:

  • Ensuring our jobs are widely advertised to reach a diverse range of applicants
  • Using an anonymised application process for shortlisting where possible
  • Applying positive action where legal and appropriate
  • Actively monitoring the diversity of our applicants
  • Ensuring our job descriptions are inclusive
  • Ensuring shortlisting and interview panels are as diverse as possible
  • Staff training

The Hepworth Wakefield is a Disability Confident Employer and any applicants who identify as disabled and meet the minimum criteria will be offered an interview. If you would like to declare you have a disability in order for this to be taken into consideration or you require any reasonable adjustments for any part of the recruitment process, please contact Alexa Becker (HR Manager) on alexabecker@hepworthwakefield.org.

The Hepworth Wakefield is proud to confirm we are a Living Wage Employer, certified by the Living Wage Foundation.

Fixed-term, 18-month contract
Part-time, 22.2 hours (3 days) per week
Hybrid working options available

We are looking for a Collection Assistant to work closely with the Head of Collection & Exhibitions, and Collection & Exhibitions team on a dedicated collection and archive project. In 2024, The Hepworth Wakefield presented the major retrospective ‘Ronald Moody: Sculpting Life’, which has resulted in 18 sculptures by Moody being acquired into Wakefield Council Permanent Art Collection, as managed by The Hepworth Wakefield. We have also acquired the papers and archive of Cynthia Moody, Ronald Moody’s niece, who was instrumental in securing Moody’s legacy through her years of research.

The Collection Assistant will catalogue and digitize these new holdings, within the context of The Hepworth’s Archive and Collections Management processes. They will further promote the work of Ronald Moody, and Cynthia Moody’s research, by making it accessible to audiences and researchers, and by supporting the ambitions of The Hepworth Wakefield in finding tour partners to present Moody’s work in the future.

For details on how to apply, please see below. Deadline for applications is 9am on Monday 24 February 2025. Interviews will take place on Thursday 6 March 2025.

Collection Assistant employer: Theartgorgeous

The Hepworth Wakefield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and inclusivity. As a Living Wage Employer, we provide competitive compensation alongside opportunities for professional growth within the arts sector, all set against the backdrop of our stunning gallery and community-focused initiatives. Join us in making a meaningful impact through art and education while enjoying the benefits of hybrid working and a commitment to diversity.
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Contact Detail:

Theartgorgeous Recruiting Team

alexabecker@hepworthwakefield.org

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Collection Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with The Hepworth Wakefield's collection and exhibitions, especially the works of Ronald Moody. Understanding the context and significance of these pieces will help you engage more meaningfully during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the arts sector, particularly those involved in collections and exhibitions. Attend relevant events or workshops to make connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the Collection Assistant role.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your passion for art and community engagement in conversations. The Hepworth values diversity and inclusivity, so demonstrating your commitment to these principles can set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the future projects at The Hepworth Wakefield. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you stand out as a proactive candidate during the interview process.

We think you need these skills to ace Collection Assistant

Cataloguing Skills
Archival Management
Digitalisation Techniques
Research Skills
Attention to Detail
Communication Skills
Project Management
Knowledge of Art History
Data Entry Skills
Public Engagement
Team Collaboration
Time Management
Problem-Solving Skills
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities of a Collection Assistant. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role, such as cataloguing, digitising, and promoting art collections.

Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in collections management or similar roles. Include specific examples of past work that demonstrate your ability to catalogue and digitise collections effectively.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for art and your understanding of The Hepworth Wakefield's mission. Mention how your skills can contribute to their collection and archive project, particularly regarding Ronald Moody's work.

Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for the role of Collection Assistant.

How to prepare for a job interview at Theartgorgeous

✨Know Your Collection

Familiarise yourself with The Hepworth Wakefield's collection, especially the works of Ronald Moody and Cynthia Moody. Being able to discuss specific pieces and their significance will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.

✨Highlight Relevant Experience

Prepare to discuss any previous experience you have in cataloguing or archiving collections. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed similar projects, as this will demonstrate your capability for the Collection Assistant role.

✨Showcase Your Communication Skills

As the role involves promoting the work of artists and engaging with audiences, be prepared to discuss how you would communicate complex information clearly and effectively. Think of examples where you've successfully engaged with diverse groups.

✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity

The Hepworth Wakefield values diversity and inclusivity. Be ready to share your thoughts on how you can contribute to these values within the organisation, and any experiences you have that align with their commitment to improving representation in the arts.

Collection Assistant
Theartgorgeous
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