Curator

Curator                
Reports To: Executive Director
Supervises: Creative Staff

The Curator is responsible for setting the creative direction of the organization, in close conversation with contemporary understandings of the field, and in support of exciting local and national contemporary artists of color.

Key Responsibilities

Public Programs

• Maintain a deep commitment to presenting works by artists of color, and supporting their continued advancement in the field.
• Develop seasons and programs that are on the cutting edge of artistic work for both artists and publics. 
• Program across multiple physical and mental spaces to advance the discourse of Asian American art. 
• Lead in setting the long term curatorial vision of the Organization along with the Executive Director & Creative Staff.
• Collaborate with director-level management in long-term and strategic planning processes, implementation, and monitoring across the organization.
• Identify exciting individuals to serve on a Community Advisory Board.
• Solicit and implement feedback on programming from the Community Advisory Board.
• Assist with Programs Communications, in collaboration with other AAI staff.
• Lead and collaborate on fundraising and reporting where relevant.
• Willingness to work outside of main responsibilities and serve as an organizational ambassador as advised by the Executive Director.
• Positive attitude and willing participation in a small team dynamic. 

Qualifications

• Competency in contemporary modes of art making, craft, media, creativity, and accessibility.
• Ability to offer programs for multiple audiences, in multiple contexts. 
• Ability to represent the organization in community outreach settings
• Must be willing to conduct programs and meetings in-person. 
• Effective communicator across different stakeholder backgrounds.
• Highly organized with attention to detail concerning artist’s information.
• Commitment to organizational values of social justice and equity.

Hours and Compensation

This is a full-time permanent exempt salary position at approximately 40 hours/week. Evening and weekend hours may be required. The salary is $62,000 annually. 

The position is eligible for AAI’s medical and dental group plan, a commuter pass benefit and a generous paid time off package.

Organizational Overview

Asian Arts Initiative is a multi-disciplinary and community-based arts center in Philadelphia that advances racial equity and understanding, activating artists, youth, and their communities through creative practice and dialogue grounded in the diverse Asian American experience. Through exhibitions, performances, and community projects, we provide an inclusive gathering place for conversation and exchange of ideas. Our community-based arts initiatives seek out and cultivate innovative models for artists to engage with local communities, with a particular emphasis on working in partnership with our immediate neighborhood. Our primary programs include: 1) Artist residencies, commissions, and presenting of performances and exhibitions for artists to develop professionally and to create socially relevant artwork reflecting community experiences; 2) Year-round out-of-school-time programming for middle school youth, offering creative development and a safe place; 3) Participatory curatorial practices and various community development initiatives in our immediate neighborhood of Chinatown North/Callowhill.