David W & Mary S Benfer Circus Curatorial Research Fellow 1 Year

Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/BenferCircusFellow

This 9 to 12-month visiting A&P appointment integrates the David W. and Mary S. Benfer Circus Curatorial Fellow as a member of staff within the Circus Department at The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The position will report to the Tibbals Curator of Circus and will work closely with the curator to expand, document, and share knowledge about objects in the museum’s permanent collections.

Supports the day-to-day operations of the Circus department through participation in the planning and implementation of exhibits and updates in the Circus galleries. Assists with the interpretation and display of objects related to the circus and its allied arts. Works with the Circus Exhibits team on routine rotations of objects, posters, and prints in the Circus galleries. May curate one or more exhibitions of posters or prints.

Researches and documents the Museum’s permanent collection including posters, prints, costumes, props, and wagons. Provides other curatorial support for future exhibition projects in the Circus Collection. May pursue publishing opportunities related to work with the Circus collections.

Performs scholarly research in support of the Archives and Registration departments. Assists in cataloging Circus collections and documents connections between objects across the collections. Facilitates research requests and inquiries about the circus and allied arts.

Coordinates with the Education department on public facing programming (gallery talks, lectures, or youth and family programs). May lead public gallery talks and/or give public lectures about curatorial work and research findings.

Serves as an ambassador for The Ringling and provides outreach to the circus community. Participates in special projects and other duties that support museum operation as assigned.
Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in History, American Culture, Theater, Art History, or a related field

Experience

Two years of relevant experience

Your application is not complete until you have uploaded:

A position-relevant resume and cover letter that includes relevant experience, course work, skills, and contact information (phone and/or email) for at least 3 professional references
A writing sample (10 pages or less and may be part of an academic paper)

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in History, American Culture, Theater, Art History, or a related field
Knowledge of collection database programs such as TMS