Educator

Job Summary

Alphawood Exhibitions, LLC seeks enthusiastic individuals for part-time gallery staff positions at Wrightwood 659 for the upcoming exhibition The First Homosexuals: The Birth of a New Identity, 1869-1939. The First Homosexuals explores a sea change in how society regarded homosexuality in the wake of the coining of the term “homosexual” in 1869. The forthcoming exhibition is unprecedented with more than 300 works by more than 125 artists from 40 countries, on loan from over 100 museums and private collections across the world.

The First Homosexuals will run from May 2, through July 26, 2025. Public operating hours will be Fridays from 12 PM - 7 PM, and Saturdays from 10 AM - 5 PM. Wednesday and Thursday operating hours may be added for group visits with varying shift times available.

Commitment

Part-time Educators should be available to work a consistent schedule. Applicants should be available beginning on April 29, 2025, for our in-person training session, press preview, and VIP opening. There will also be a critical online training module, an interpretive writing workshop, and weekly virtual check-ins in the weeks leading up to the in-person training date.

Desired Attributes

Successful candidates will be outgoing and possess a passion for art, architecture, and social movements. They must be comfortable in a progressive environment and enthusiastic about working with diverse audiences. Educators are expected to be intuitive, reliable, intellectually curious, and inclusive team members capable of maintaining a peaceful yet engaging gallery atmosphere. Educators must possess outstanding communication skills and a willingness to actively engage with guests in the gallery. Educators must be enthusiastic about collaborating with the team to interpret artwork and develop educational resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Read and digest the provided educational materials relating to the exhibition.

• Complete online training modules prior to in-person training.

• Demonstrate knowledge of educational materials, building policies, and safety guidelines.

• Greet and welcome guests to the space, communicate and ensure gallery policies are followed.

• Facilitate conversations with guests and create points of access to exhibitions and artwork.

• Direct guests through gallery spaces and assist with queueing and access control as needed.

• Communicate gallery observations & feedback in-person or via online project management portal.

• Work in tandem with the security staff to ensure a safe and positive guest experience.

• Assist with gallery upkeep and opening/closing procedures.

• Produce an “Object Chat” or “Educator Insight” with the support and guidance of Wrightwood 659 Staff.

• Assist with setup for gallery events and public programs.

• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

• Comfortable speaking to groups of people.

• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods and lift light furniture.

• Occasional late evenings may be required due to special events and exhibition programming.

Skills & Qualifications

• Knowledge of contemporary art, social movements, and/or architecture.

• One year of guest service experience, preferably in a museum, academic, or cultural venue, including internships.

• Attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines.

• Familiarity with digital devices and personal technologies.

• Experience or interest in museum education.

• The ability to create a welcoming and engaging environment.

• Excellent communication skills and sensitivity to a variety of guest needs.

• Organized, composed, and focused in a dynamic environment.

• Keen observational skills and a propensity for spatial order.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, or simultaneous enrollment in a professional degree program.

• Employment is conditional based on review of references and appropriate security checks.

About Wrightwood 659

Wrightwood 659 presents exhibitions on socially engaged art and architecture, on issues facing LGBTQ+ communities, and on Asian art and architecture. Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood in a building transformed by Pritzker Prize winner Tadao Ando, Wrightwood 659 encourages visitors to engage with pressing issues of our time in an intimate and beautiful space. For additional information, please visit wrightwood659.org.

Health and Safety

The health and safety of our guests and staff is our priority. In efforts to reduce the risk of spreading COVID- 19, we have adopted the following measures: All staff are highly encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (including the latest vaccine). Masks covering the mouth and nose are suggested but optional while inside the building.

Application Details

Interested candidates should email educatorjobs@wrightwood659.org with a resume and cover letter. Cover letters must address the candidate’s specific interest in both The First Homosexuals and in Wrightwood 659. Please use “Educator Application” in the email subject line. Submission deadline is February 17, 2025 with rolling interviews beginning February 6.