National Gallery of Ireland: Curator of Italian and Spanish Art – Call For Applications

The National Gallery of Ireland (‘the Gallery’) is Ireland’s major national cultural institution devoted to the collection and care of fine art. Comprising some 16,000 paintings, drawings, watercolours, miniatures, prints, sculpture and decorative arts, the institution’s extensive holdings include masterpieces by many of the most celebrated figures in the history of western European art. In addition, the Gallery houses the most representative collection of historic Irish art. The national collections and archives are important resources for access by anyone with an interest in art and art education. Its associated disciplines play an important role supporting the work of the Gallery’s library, archives, research, conservation, education, exhibitions andcollection services staff. Funded mainly by the State, the Gallery employs more than 100 staff and provides free access to the public 361 days a year.

The Gallery wishes to recruit a Curator of Italian and Spanish Art. The overall responsibility of this post is to care for, research and provide information about the Gallery’s collection of Italian and Spanish Art. Reporting to the Head Curator (or nominated deputy), the Curator of Italian and Spanish Art will:

  • Research and publish on the Italian and Spanish works of art in the Gallery’s collection
  • Keep abreast with current scholarly research in these fields
  • Ensure that the collections of Italian and Spanish art are displayed to the highest standards
  • Curate exhibitions on Italian and Spanish art that contribute to the Gallery’s public programme
  • Propose new acquisitions and loans
  • Provide insurance valuations for works in the collection
  • Propose the priorities for conservation and agree on works to receive treatment
  • Ensure that the information on the Italian and Spanish works of art is up-to-date (on the Gallery’s website, labels and the collection registration system)
  • Take part in the Gallery’s lecture programme
  • Respond to queries from the public, external specialists and arrange visits and inspections where appropriate
  • Maintain and develop professional relationships with colleagues from other museums, academics, private collectors, dealers and auction house staff
  • Contribute to sponsorship proposals, press releases and other related documentation
  • Actively contribute to the Staff Development Programme
  • Complete other duties as required

The successful candidate will have:

  • An advanced third-level qualification in art history
  • Specialist knowledge and expertise of Italian and Spanish art
  • A record of publications in at least one of the two areas
  • Knowledge of the Italian or Spanish language
  • Strong research and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail
  • Outstanding organisation and planning skills, and a commitment to meet deadlines
  • A track record of self-motivation and the ability to work independently and on his/her own initiative
  • Excellent communication and inter-personal skills and the ability to work as part of a collaborative project team
  • A willingness to partake in and enhance own professional development

    • Note: This job description is a guide to broad areas of responsibility and accountability and should not be regarded as a comprehensive listing. The job description may be subject to review in the view of new structures and / or the changing needs of the Gallery. All employees are required to be compliant with NGI screening, security and Garda vetting procedures.

    Grade and Salary: Salary will be in accordance with point 1 of the Engineer Grade III Salary Scale (PPC) currently €30,376 per annum.

    Candidates should note the National Gallery of Ireland complies with Department of Public Expenditure and Reform regulations and guidelines on Public Service pay and conditions of employment and pension provisions.

    Contract Duration: Full-Time Permanent.

    Post provisions: The successful candidate must be willing to work occasional evenings and weekends (as required).

    Closing date for receipt of applications: 4pm, Monday 10 July, 2017.

    Interview: scheduled week commencing 31 July, 2017.

    How to apply: Interested applicants should send a cover letter and curriculum vitae (in MS Word only) in strictest confidence to Ms. Michelle Serviss, HR Partner, Merrion Square West, Dublin 2 or alternatively via email to jobopportunities@ngi.ie. References (contact details) must be available upon request. Please state Curator of Italian and Spanish Art on application. Candidates should note that panels may be formed from which future positions may be filled.