The Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU invites applications for the position of part-time, on-call Art Handler.
Art Handlers / Installers assist with delivery / receiving and installation / deinstallation of artworks and preparation and maintenance of exhibition spaces.
Responsibilities may also include : construction of exhibition furniture and crates; packing and fitting crates, and assistance with inventory control and maintenance of tools and equipment.
The Art Handlers / Installers generally work during the 8-12 week installation and deinstallation periods between the ICA’s two synchronized exhibition cycles, with other hours as required.
Art Handers / Installers report to and are under the supervision of the ICA’s Chief Preparator & Exhibition Designer and work closely with and provide support and assistance to Registrar.
Job Responsibilities
- Prepare and organize tools and equipment required for installation and deinstallation
- Assist in the inventory maintenance of consumable exhibition materials
- Assist with incoming and outgoing art and equipment shipments
- Prepare gallery spaces for exhibition, including : wall repair and painting
- Assist in the construction and preparation of art installations, exhibition furniture, crates and packaging
- Handle, move, place and prepare art objects
- Assist artists who are on-site for installation / deinstallation
- Assist with the installation of A / V equipment, including speakers, monitors, and projectors
- Assist with lighting of gallery spaces
- Install labels, signage and other didactic materials
- Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
- 2-3 years experience with hands-on installation and deinstallation of complex and preferably contemporary Art installations
- Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with museum best practices for object care and handling, packing and moving of artworks, and appropriate display techniques
- Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrated experience working with exhibitions teams
- Good organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work in physically demanding situations, including heavy lifting up to 50 pounds and working at heights
- Flexibility to work nights and weekends
Preferred Qualifications
- Valid driver’s license
- Proficiency in carpentry, fabrication and production
- Demonstrated experience with workshop skills and safety, including using hand and power tools
- Demonstrated experience with / licensure in the use of : forklifts, scissor lifts, scaffolding, and rigging
- A / V installation and troubleshooting experience