The Cahoon Museum of American Art, located on Cape Cod in Cotuit, Massachusetts, seeks a Curator to guide the museum’s interpretive framework, exhibition programming, and collections management as it enters an exciting time of revisioning and growth. Created forty years ago in the historic home and studio of renowned folk artists Ralph and Martha Cahoon, the museum today celebrates the variety and complexity of the American art form as it relates to the region.
With this growth, the museum is seeking its first dedicated Curator to lead the organization’s artistic and interpretive vision, establish its curatorial “voice,” coordinate its exhibitions, and steward its collection. Reporting to and working alongside Executive Director Sarah Johnson, Ph.D., the Curator will serve in a senior-leadership role that assists with the formulation and implementation of strategic direction for the museum.
The museum is focusing on several initiatives that make this an outstanding time for the incoming Curator to offer an important contribution:
Expand the museum campus and outdoor spaces to accommodate new programs and opportunities to showcase art.
Uplift the work and legacy of Ralph and Martha Cahoon through the publication of a catalogue raisonné, biography, and online presence.
Create a sustainable exhibition plan that reflects the museum’s ambitions and energy while optimizing collaborations with other institutions and collections.
Develop standards and write an exhibition style guide.
Undertake a collections management strategy and grant-funded archives assessment project.
Make the museum more accessible to diverse audiences and inclusive of artists traditionally underrepresented in art museums.
Experience, Skills, and Attributes
At least four years of museum experience curating or partnering on a variety of exhibitions and implementing collections care. Ability to co-create strategy and oversee a small departmental budget.
BA or equivalent experience, preferably in art history, museum studies, arts administration, or closely related field.
Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in American art.
Communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to network and connect with artists and audiences.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects.
Ability to work collaboratively with museum colleagues. Emotional intelligence that builds a culture of trust and respect within the staff team and museum audiences.
Conversant with current events in the museum field and professional museum associations.
Evidence of commitment to DEIA in ways that that advance diversity and access. Enthusiastic support for serving diverse constituencies.
Facility with museum databases, including Past Perfect or comparable, and with Microsoft Office.
To apply in confidence, submit application by April 12, 2024, to: Dan Yaeger, Senior Search Consultant, Museum Search & Reference, via SearchandRef@museum-search.com.
Please include:
A cover letter expressing interest in the position and giving brief examples of past related experience.
A résumé.
The names and contact information for three professional references, indicating their relationship with the candidate.