Posted: 8/5/2009
Level: Mid
Type: Permanent

Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland, Florida seeks a Curator of Art. Under the direction of the Executive Director, the Curator of Art’s primary duties include scheduling all exhibitions, producing exhibition catalogues and didactic materials, and overseeing the care and development of the permanent collection. The Curator of Art works with Museum staff to cultivate donors and solicit funds to support Museum activities, as well as to conceive and coordinate programs related to both the exhibitions and the permanent collection. The position requires an individual who can both lead a wide variety of activities within an ambitious curatorial department and enjoy and excel at working collaboratively with a range of stakeholders, from paid and volunteer staff members to board members and community leaders.

M.A. degree in art history, cultural studies, museum studies or other related disciplines required. 5+ years of active curatorial experience leading to the development of unique exhibitions and a thorough knowledge of standard curatorial practices, collection management policies and a broad interest in the history of art are also highly desired. Must be able to communicate orally and in writing to a wide variety of audience members. Ability to conceptualize, organize and direct a variety of projects simultaneously is essential. Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and staffs required. Success in fund raising and grant development is preferred. Basic computer skills in office software required and experience with museum collection databases preferred.

About Polk Museum of Art
Polk Museum of Art is a private, nationally accredited art museum that was founded in 1966. Its current 37,000 square foot facility opened in 1988 and is widely acclaimed for its ability to present art in an elegant, yet contemporary setting. The Museum has developed an outstanding reputation for exhibitions that are committed to the diversity of artistic talent within Florida and the US. The scope of the Museum’s permanent collection includes American art since World War II with an emphasis on Florida art, Pre-Columbian art, 19th-20th century Japanese Art, and 16th-19th century European Decorative Art. The Museum’s exhibition of Pre-Columbian Art remains on permanent display while other portions of the collection are presented on a rotating basis in four additional gallery spaces. The Museum maintains an outdoor sculpture garden on its property that includes approximately 12 works. Additional spaces within the Museum include a Museum store, a 152-seat multi-purpose auditorium, a library, classrooms including a computer lab, and an 800 square foot gallery permanently committed to the work of Polk County students. And the Museum oversees the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition that is presented annually in Winter Haven, a city 15 miles east of Lakeland.

Located in Polk County, Florida midway between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland is known for its natural and artistic beauty. The city’s many lakes are the sites of much public activity, including the Museum’s annual outdoor art festival, Mayfaire by-the-Lake. The Museum is located within the city’s historic district, immediately adjacent to the main branch of the city library. In addition, Florida Southern College, located two blocks from the Museum, is home to the largest single collection of structures designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

E-mail cover letter, resume, and references to:

Terri D’Orsaneo
Administrator