At a Glance
- Tasks: Research and curate photography collections while developing your own independent project.
- Company: Join the V&A, the world's leading museum of art and design.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension, flexible working, and discounts at V&A shops.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain invaluable curatorial experience and contribute to the history of photography.
- Qualifications: Passion for photography and research skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 35561 - 35561 £ per year.
Salary £35,561
Location Cromwell Road, London
The Curatorial Fellowship in Photography, supported by The Bern Schwartz Family Foundation, is an opportunity to further develop expertise in the history of photography by researching the collections of the V&A, while gaining vital curatorial experience working in a museum. The Curatorial Fellow will divide their time between key curatorial duties and pursuing an independent research project, which may relate to portraiture, colour photography or photographic processes, all areas of interest to the American photographer Bern Schwartz and The Bern Schwartz Family Foundation. The topic and scope of the project will be agreed at the start of the fellowship, depending on the Fellow’s expertise and the priorities of the Photography Section.
The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art and design, housing a permanent collection of over 2.8 million objects, books and archives that span over 5,000 years of human creativity. The museum holds many of the UK's national collections and houses some of the greatest resources for the study of architecture, furniture, fashion, textiles, photography, sculpture, painting, jewellery, glass, ceramics, book arts, Asian art and design, theatre and performance.
Our Mission Is To Be Recognised As The World's Leading Museum Of Art, Design And Performance, And To Enrich People's Lives By Promoting Research, Knowledge And Enjoyment Of The Designed World To The Widest Possible Audience.
We Strive To Make The V&A Matter To More People And In That Context We Work To The Following Six Strategic Objectives:
- To create a world class visitor and learning experience across all V&A sites and collections.
- Focus and deepen the relevance of our collections to the UK creative and knowledge economy.
- Expand the V&A's international reach, reputation and impact.
- To operate with financial and organisational initiative and efficiency.
- Showcase the best of digital design and deliver an outstanding digital experience.
- Diversify and increase private and commercial funding sources.
The Benefits:
- Generous pension scheme
- 29 days plus bank holidays
- Flexible working
- Tickets to V&A exhibitions
- Subsidised staff canteen
- 25% discount in V&A shops
- Give as you earn scheme
- Bicycle loan
- Interest-free season ticket
- Interest-free rental deposit loan
- Free safety checks and small repairs to your bike with Doctor Bike
- Wide range of training and professional development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Staff diversity networks
At The V&A, We Are Committed To Equality, Diversity And Inclusion (EDI) For All And Strive To Go Above And Beyond Public Duty Placed Upon Us By The Equality Act 2010. As Such, We Are a Disability Confident Employer Level 2.
The V&A Makes The Following Commitments To All Applications:
- The Disability Confident Employer scheme offers guaranteed interviews – Interviewing applicants with a disability who successfully evidence the essential criteria on a person specification and consider them on their abilities;
- Providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process.
- Making reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process so disabled job applicants have the best opportunity to demonstrate that they can do the job.
- Supporting employees and adjustments during employment.
In some circumstances, such as when we receive a high volume of applications that meet the minimum criteria, we may not be able to guarantee an interview under the scheme. In these cases, we will interview only the highest-scoring applicants, from both people with disabilities and people without a disability.
Curatorial Fellow in Photography, supported The Bern Schwartz Family Foundation employer: V&A Museum of Childhood
The V&A is an exceptional employer, offering the Curatorial Fellow in Photography a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history of photography while contributing to one of the world's leading museums. With a commitment to employee growth through extensive training and professional development, alongside a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion, the V&A ensures a rewarding experience for its staff. Located in the heart of London, employees enjoy generous benefits including flexible working arrangements, a subsidised canteen, and access to exclusive exhibitions, making it an ideal place for those passionate about art and design.
Contact Details:
V&A Museum of Childhood Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Curatorial Fellow in Photography, supported The Bern Schwartz Family Foundation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the photography and curatorial fields. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can offer valuable advice.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for photography! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work and research projects. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your insights and ideas about photography trends and history. This will make you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the V&A and its collections. Familiarise yourself with their current exhibitions and any recent news. This will help you ask informed questions and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little nudge can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Curatorial Fellow in Photography, supported The Bern Schwartz Family Foundation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Curatorial Fellow position. Highlight your experience in photography and curatorial work, and show how your interests align with the V&A's mission and the focus areas of the fellowship.
Show Off Your Research Skills:Since this role involves an independent research project, be sure to mention any relevant research experience you have. Discuss specific topics or projects you've worked on that relate to portraiture, colour photography, or photographic processes.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We want to see your passion for photography and curatorial work without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the V&A team.
How to prepare for a job interview at V&A Museum of Childhood
✨Know Your Photography History
Brush up on the history of photography, especially focusing on portraiture and colour photography. Familiarise yourself with key movements, influential photographers, and how they relate to the V&A's collection. This will show your passion and knowledge during the interview.
✨Prepare Your Research Project Ideas
Think about potential independent research projects you could pursue during the fellowship. Have a few ideas ready that align with the interests of Bern Schwartz and the priorities of the Photography Section. This demonstrates initiative and creativity.
✨Understand the V&A's Mission
Get to grips with the V&A's mission and strategic objectives. Be prepared to discuss how your role as a Curatorial Fellow can contribute to enriching people's lives through art and design. Showing alignment with their goals will make you stand out.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the V&A's future exhibitions or how they envision the role evolving. It shows your genuine interest in the position and the institution.