Gertrude is pleased to announce the launch of the Curator in Residence Program, a new initiative providing a year-long professional development opportunity for early practice curators to contribute to the artistic program and broader organisational undertakings of Gertrude.
The Curator in Residence Program supports a selected early practice curator each year to contribute to and develop projects and programs at Gertrude. The part time, paid position (0.8 EFT) will be selected on a yearly basis beginning in February/March and continuing for 12 months.
The Curator in Residence Program is a year-long professional development opportunity within an engaged, creative environment, contributing to a small and committed team in support of presenting dynamic and expanding programming models for contemporary art. The Program increases Gertrude’s capacity to deliver more public programs and events alongside and in support of the exhibition programs at Gertrude Contemporary and Gertrude Glasshouse. The Program encourages new perspectives on curatorial practice and creates new networks involving studio and exhibiting artists and the broader cultural community.
This initiative is intended to provide opportunities for an early practice curator to learn new skills, develop networks and contribute towards the artistic program at Gertrude. The program will focus on providing hands-on professional development for curators to develop an understanding of the operations of a prolific contemporary art centre. The curator will develop practical administrative skills in support of the organisation’s day to day activities; develop an understanding of working directly with and in support of a broad range of artists; develop public programs and associated events relating to the exhibition programs at Gertrude Contemporary and Gertrude Glasshouse; and contribute towards the realisation of the annual Gertrude Studios exhibition, its associated public programs and publication.
With limited opportunities for early practice curators in Australia, this initiative creates a professionally supported structure to help develop a new generation of diverse curatorial contributors. As with Gertrude’s Studio Program, this initiative is intended as a springboard for assisting early practice arts professionals to be equipped with the skills, experience, knowledge and networks to accelerate their career trajectory. The Curator in Residence Program is purposefully structured as a part-time role so that the commitment may enable curators the time and space to additionally pursue projects independent of the organisation.
Organisational Context
Gertrude is not for profit art gallery and studio complex operating across two venues in Preston South and Collingwood in Melbourne. Founded in 1985, Gertrude is widely considered to be one of Australia’s leading incubators for contemporary visual art. With equal emphasis on supporting the production and presentation of art, incorporating 16 studios supporting the 2-year Studio Program, and presenting an exhibition program of solo and curated exhibitions across two venues. Gertrude works with leading artists to develop artist-driven exhibitions as well as working with independent curators to produce innovative models of exhibition making. Gertrude is committed to supporting the production of new work and exhibition models and connecting these projects with broad public audiences.
Application and Interview Process
Expressions of interest in the role are now being sought, with applications due on
27 January 2021. Interviews of the short listed candidates will be conducted
in early February.
Applicants should submit the following as a single PDF document:
- Cover letter detailing their interest in the Program and previous professional experience (1 page max)
-
Document addressing the Key Selection Criteria (2 pages max)
-
CV detailing relevant experience (2 pages max)
- Two recent examples of writing - articles, exhibition reviews, essays, interviews (4 pages max in total)
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Name and contact details for two referees
Completed applications should be sent to apply@gertrude.org.au no later than 11:59pm AEST on 27 January 2021.
Late and/or incomplete applications will not be considered.
If you have queries about the role or your application these should be directed to Tracy Burgess on apply@gertrude.org.au or (03) 9480 0068 before 22 January 2021. Please note our offices will be closed from Wednesday 23 December 2020 – 5 January 2021 inclusive.
Gertrude is an equal opportunity employer. First Nations and culturally diverse curators are strongly encouraged to apply.
Image: Gertrude Contemporary, Preston South. Photo: Jake Roden