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Octagon Center for Arts in Ames, IA Seeks Part‐time Exhibits Manager Start Date: May 27, 2014 or ASAP

DEADLINE: Please submit your resume and cover letter digitally via email to director@octagonarts.org by May 12, 2014

The Octagon Center for the Arts is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the position of exhibits manager of the Octagon Center galleries. The ideal candidate will oversee the installation of periodic exhibits in three galleries and will effectively present exhibitions and public educational programs to promote interest, appreciation and understanding of the arts.

The Octagon Center for the Arts is a non‐profit community art organization located in downtown Ames Main Street Cultural District. The Octagon has been a cornerstone of the cultural scene in Ames since 1966. The Octagon serves more than 30,000 people annually through education classes and outreach programs, rotating exhibits, retail gallery shop, and special events such as the Octagon Art Festival and Festival of Trees.

Part‐time, Hourly Pay (average 20 hours/week)

*10‐20 hrs/week non‐installation periods; approximately 30 hrs/week during installations

Requirements:

· Bachelor in Studio Arts or Art History degree. Course work in museum studies, or professional experience with exhibits

·Experience with exhibits installations; knowledge of proper procedures to handle and store art

·Good design conception and visualization skills in regards to layout of artwork for exhibits ·Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work positively with artists and public ·Ability to share creative ideas for exciting programs to spark public interest in exhibits

Responsibilities:

·Works with Executive Director on exhibition layout and oversees installation both 2‐D and 3‐D artwork in the gallery spaces. Requires ability to lift 50 pounds and use a 12 foot ladder for changing light bulbs. ·In charge of delicate unpacking/packing of incoming and outgoing artwork for exhibits

·Maintain gallery space: touch‐up painting, rotating light figures and some use of tools

·Assist with designing and producing exhibit supportive materials such as labels, posters and brochures ·Data‐driven activities, detailed record keeping of artists, research for potential future exhibits

·Assists staff with coordinating opening receptions/gallery talks and other related exhibit programs ·Supervise semester intern assisting with the exhibits department

·During non‐installation periods, assist other departments with clerical work or help with other event

preparations (art festival, fundraisers, etc) per duties as assigned by Executive Director ·Coordinate with rentals manager to facilitate rentals around exhibit calendar

·Assist Execute Director with seeking out grants and securing sponsorships for exhibits ·Oversee permanent collection and donated art inventory

·Proficiency with Microsoft Office and graphic design software

·Experience with successful grant writing

·Strong ability to work independently on projects, and balance multiple projects with attention to detail

Octagon Center for the Arts • 427 Douglas Ave. Ames, IA 50010 • 515.232.5331 • www.octagonarts.org