Chief Curator

Chief Curator

London Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the curatorial team and manage the Gallery's Collection.
  • Company: Join the National Portrait Gallery, a top art institution celebrating British heritage.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for strategic influence and collaboration.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of cultural engagement and make a significant impact on public art appreciation.
  • Qualifications: Seeking a visionary leader with extensive curatorial experience and a passion for art.
  • Other info: This role offers a chance to shape exhibitions and enhance the Gallery's global presence.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

The National Portrait Gallery, one of the world’s leading art institutions, is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the portraits of historically significant and famous British people. With a rich history and a newly revitalized space following the Inspiring People campaign, the Gallery stands at the forefront of cultural heritage and public engagement. The National Portrait Gallery is seeking a visionary Chief Curator to lead its curatorial team. The Chief Curator will work closely with the Director and senior colleagues to grow and care for the collection, contribute to an engaging exhibitions programme, and collaborate on dynamic programming that resonates both locally and internationally. This role involves leading the development and management of the Collection, advising the Director and Trustees on curatorial matters, and developing policies for the Collection, including the Heinz Archive and Library. Additionally, the Chief Curator will spearhead acquisitions and commissions, oversee research and publications, and ensure the conservation and care of the Gallery’s Collections. As a key member of the Executive Group and senior management team, the Chief Curator will represent the Curatorial department in strategic planning and decision-making processes. This includes developing and implementing the annual departmental plan, managing risks, and building strategic partnerships to enhance the Gallery’s profile and funding opportunities. The ideal…

Chief Curator employer: NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

The National Portrait Gallery is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the heart of cultural heritage in a newly revitalized space. With a commitment to employee growth and a collaborative work culture, the Gallery fosters an environment where creativity thrives, allowing the Chief Curator to lead innovative exhibitions and engage with a diverse audience. Employees benefit from strategic partnerships and a focus on professional development, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about art and history.
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Contact Detail:

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Chief Curator

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarize yourself with the National Portrait Gallery's collection and recent exhibitions. Understanding the Gallery's mission and how it engages with both local and international audiences will help you articulate your vision for the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the art and curatorial fields. Attend industry events, lectures, or exhibitions to connect with current curators and gallery directors. Building these relationships can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on trends in museum curation and public engagement. Being knowledgeable about innovative practices in the field will demonstrate your commitment to evolving the Gallery's programming and enhancing visitor experiences.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your vision for the Gallery's future during interviews. Think about how you would approach acquisitions, exhibitions, and community engagement, and be ready to share specific ideas that align with the Gallery's goals.

We think you need these skills to ace Chief Curator

Curatorial Expertise
Art Historical Knowledge
Collection Management
Exhibition Development
Strategic Planning
Leadership Skills
Public Engagement
Research and Publication Skills
Conservation Techniques
Policy Development
Collaboration and Partnership Building
Communication Skills
Project Management
Risk Management
Visionary Thinking

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Chief Curator position at The National Portrait Gallery. Familiarize yourself with their mission, recent exhibitions, and strategic goals.

Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in curatorial practices, collection management, and public engagement. Emphasize leadership roles and any successful exhibitions or programs you have developed.

Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your vision for the role and how your background aligns with the Gallery's objectives. Discuss your approach to curatorial leadership and how you plan to enhance the Gallery’s profile and funding opportunities.

Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the Collection and its significance. Mention specific works or artists that resonate with you and how you would approach acquisitions and programming to engage diverse audiences.

How to prepare for a job interview at NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

✨Show Your Vision

As a Chief Curator, it's essential to demonstrate your vision for the Gallery's future. Be prepared to discuss innovative ideas for exhibitions and how you would engage with both local and international audiences.

✨Know the Collection

Familiarize yourself with the National Portrait Gallery's collection and its historical significance. Highlight your understanding of the collection's strengths and areas for growth during the interview.

✨Collaborative Spirit

Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively with senior colleagues and stakeholders. Share examples of past experiences where you successfully led a team or partnered with others to achieve common goals.

✨Strategic Thinking

Prepare to discuss your approach to strategic planning and risk management. The interviewers will be interested in how you would contribute to the Gallery's long-term goals and enhance its profile and funding opportunities.

Chief Curator
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
N
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