Preparator
Wrightwood 659 is a unique art space in Lincoln Park dedicated to the exhibition of socially engaged art and architecture. We are seeking a Preparator to join our winning team. The person holding this will provide essential support in the planning, coordination, and execution of exhibitions, as well as assist with the care of objects featured in temporary exhibitions. The Preparator reports to the Registrar.Responsibilities Include:
Exhibition Coordination:
Support the logistical aspects of exhibition planning and preparation in advance of installation including understanding object-related requirements and installation conditions and managing the inventory of exhibitions-related supplies and special equipment.Artwork Handling and Conservation:Safely handle and transport artworks, ensuring adherence to museum protocols and conservation standards.
Lead installations and deinstallations using careful handling and movement of the artworks.
Assist with condition reporting, labeling, and working with couriers as needed.
Assist in scheduling and management of third-party vendors as related to installation, movement, and deinstallation of artworks.
Collaborate with conservation professionals to ensure the preservation and proper care of artworks.
Participate in the maintenance and monitoring of exhibition spaces, including technology troubleshooting shooting, gallery paint touch-ups, and related adjustments as needed.
Monitor exhibition spaces during exhibitions for troubleshooting and corrections as needed.Collaborative Efforts: Foster effective communication and collaboration with colleagues across departments, including education, curatorial, and facilities.
Act as a museum representative to foster institutional relationships and collaborations.Schedule:Full time. There may be occasional special events requiring flexibility in scheduling.Qualifications:Knowledge of techniques, principles, and best practices relating to art handling, art exhibition, and maintenance of delicate materials.
Ability to meet deadlines and appropriately prioritize tasks to meet organizational goals.
Be technically adept at the safe operation of hand tools, power tools, machinery, and installation equipment.
Ability to read and implement design documents.
Strong sense of engineering principles as it relates to mounting artwork and implementing audio, video and lighting systems to augment art installations.
Capacity to develop respectful professional relationships and demonstrate high level support for colleagues.
Approach work with humility and open mindedness.
Ability to navigate smoothly between individual tasks and team efforts.
Knowledge of Sketch-up preferred.
Basic fabrication and/or art framing knowledge preferred.Requirements:Completed degree in Fine Arts or related field.
3+ years of experience of hands-on art and exhibition production in a professional environment.
Flexible availability, with the ability to work additional hours during pre-scheduled installation weeks.
Ideal candidate is someone looking for a long-term position.Pay Scale and Benefits:The salary range for this position is $58,000-$68,000, commensurate with experience.
Wrightwood 659 offers a highly competitive benefits package, including employee health insurance (medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, disability insurance, and life insurance), retirement plan, and vacation time. Free onsite parking. We are an equal opportunity employer with a progressive, LGBTQ‐friendly environment.
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.
