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Assistant Curator of Prints and Drawings, National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institute

The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery is devoted to telling the story of America by portraying those who shape the nation’s history, development and culture, as well as reflecting and portraying the diversity of the American people. The museum has a collection of over 22,000 objects in all mediums. For this position--one of two curatorial positions within the Department of Prints, Drawings and Time-based media art--the museum seeks candidates with demonstrated experience with fine art prints and drawings in all media from the 18th century to the present and knowledge of print-making techniques. Preference may be given to candidates with expertise in 18th to early 20th century prints and drawings. Knowledge of American art history is required; knowledge of American history and biography and the history of portraiture is preferred.

There are three major duties for this position. First, the curator will identify and research objects for acquisition, monitor the processing of new acquisitions, including cataloguing, and participate fully in collections care. Second, the curator will conduct sophisticated research in order to conceive and develop exhibitions, singly, or working with a curatorial team. Some exhibitions will consist primarily of loans; others will be collections based, including rotations in the museum’s permanent collection galleries. And finally, the curator is expected to write exhibitions texts, publish research, present gallery talks and lectures, participate in scholarly programs or public programs in the museum, and to respond to public inquiries about portraiture.

Candidates should have excellent writing and communication skills. Experience with The Museum System (TMS) is desirable. Candidates may substitute experience for advanced degrees, but an M.A in Art History, American Studies, or a relevant related field is required. A Ph.D. is preferred.

Salary is GS-11 ($63,722.00 -- $82,840.00), with promotion potential to GS-12.

To apply, please visit https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/410704200
Job announcement number 15A-RA-300805-DEU-NPG Applications will be accepted from 7/24/2015 to 8/14/2015.

The Smithsonian embraces diversity and equal employment opportunity.
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