David Booth Fellowship in Objects Conservation
September 2020 - August 2022
The David Booth Conservation Department at The Museum of Modern Art is pleased to offer a two-year fellowship in objects conservation, starting September 2020. The fellowship provides an opportunity to work on modern and contemporary art in a museum setting. As a member of the MoMA sculpture conservation team, the fellow will gain experience in all facets of the conservation of three-dimensional objects, including acquisition, exhibition, treatment, collection care, transport and research. Given the interdisciplinary nature of modern and contemporary art conservation, the fellow will be encouraged to work closely with MoMA's other conservation sections (science, paintings, media, paper, and photography conservation), along with curators, registrars, art handlers and artists. Goals of the fellowship may include gaining experience in exhibition planning and couriering; developing and refining documentation or treatment techniques; researching artists' materials and approaches; and disseminating research via publications and professional presentations.
Education
Graduates must be from recognized conservation and restoration training programs or a closely related field (bachelor's required, masters' preferred); candidates with equivalent training will be considered.
Experience
Internship in objects conservation. No more than three years experience past graduation.
Qualifications
● Experience documenting and treating three-dimensional objects; experience with modern and contemporary works preferable.
● Familiarity with photo-documentation, including ultra-violet, infrared, and photomicrography.
● An understanding of the applications of analytical instruments, including X-ray fluorescence, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Experience with microscopy and X-radiography.
● Experience implementing preventive conservation strategies for display, transport and/or storage of artworks.
● Excellent speaking, reading, and writing skills in English.
Responsibilities
● Writes condition reports and installation instructions (when needed) for works of art. Executes treatments on objects and recommends optimal storage and exhibition conditions. Keeps full photographic and written documentation of original condition and all stages of treatment of works of art.
● Assists in advising curators, registrars, and exhibitions staff on conservation requirements to ensure protection of works of art during exhibition, packing, and shipping. Assists in advising curators on the condition of works of art as related to exhibition, loans, and acquisition.
● Works with scientists to analyze artist and conservation materials and interpret scientific data.
● Carries out courier trips as needed.
● Assists in supervising seasonal (three-month) interns and conservation program trainees as requested.
● Investigates, evaluates, and tests new materials used by contemporary artists. Researches, develops, and tests materials and techniques for conservation use. Keeps abreast of new technical and material developments in the art historical and conservation fields through attendance at meetings and readings of conservation, technical, and art historical literature.
● Adheres to the AIC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
● Performs any other duties reasonably related to the functions described above.
Stipend: $49,000 plus benefits and vacation, with $3,775 for research and travel.
Candidates must submit a statement of interest, a current CV, and a list of references to MoMA no later than March 1, 2020. To apply, please visit MoMA Jobs.
The Museum of Modern Art is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or political affiliation. The Museum of Modern Art's Sculpture Conservation Initiative is made possible through the David Booth Conservation Center Endowment Fund.