Curatorial Fellow for Works on Paper and Photographs

Position Description

Position: Curatorial Fellow for Works on Paper and Photographs

Reports to: Chief Collections and Exhibitions Officer

Revision Date: February 2026

Classification: Exempt - 2-Year Term

Introduction

The Amon Carter Museum of American Art (the Carter) is one of the country’s leading museums of American art. The collection includes significant holdings of nineteenth-century American landscape painting and Beaux Arts painting and sculpture, great depth in the work of Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, excellent examples of twentieth-century American modernism, and deep holdings of works on paper from the nineteenth century through the present day. The Carter is one of the major repositories of American photography in the world, ranging from early daguerreotypes and salted paper prints to site-specific installations by contemporary artists.

Position Description

Working closely with the Carter’s curatorial team, the Curatorial Fellow will advance the care, interpretation, exhibition, stewardship, and growth of the Carter’s photography and works on paper collection. Specific responsibilities include researching objects in the collection as well as potential acquisitions; supporting the selection of artworks and the implementation of gallery rotations and installations; assisting with exhibition related research and planning; supporting the department and Museum’s philanthropy efforts; responding to research queries for visiting researchers and fellows as well as patrons; participating in the broader life of the Museum through collaborations with fellow curators, educators, conservators, designers, advancement and community-outreach colleagues, among others.

Responsibilities

· Under the direction of the Carter curatorial team, conduct research on artworks in the Museum’s collection of photography and works on paper

· Strengthen the collection presence on the Museum website, including updating and expanding collection catalog records, contributing to the Museum blog by sharing new research on collection objects and exhibitions,

· Support the development and presentation of permanent collection rotations and exhibitions—as well as occasional loan exhibitions—through research, writing, and implementation.

· Participate in education and outreach activities, including gallery tours, docent training, lectures, and special events as requested.

· Participate in the Museum’s acquisition program by providing research and writing support for potential artworks entering the collection.

· Assist Development staff with grant writing and other solicitations, support Museum’s culture of philanthropy.

· Participate in curatorial staff meetings

· Field inquiries and assist outside researchers; assist visiting scholars and other guests.

· Maintain confidentiality regarding all sensitive Museum information.

· Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Skills and Requirements

· Knowledge of American art; special study and/or training in works on paper and/or photography desired

· Demonstrated interest in a career in the museum field

· Scholarly ability in art history demonstrated through publications and/or participation in professional conferences and lectures

· Ability to thrive in a collaborative environment

· Demonstrated writing ability, computer, editing, proofreading and public speaking skills

· Commitment to the proper care of works of art

· Demonstrated public speaking skills

· Proven ability to manage concurrent projects and meet deadlines, highly developed organizational and interpersonal skills

· Ability to work under pressure, meet scheduled deadlines, and communicate effectively

Key Characteristics/Traits

· Collaborative

· Critical thinker and creative problem solver

· Self-motivated

· Willingness to receive and provide constructive feedback

· Excellent time management

· Accuracy and attention to detail

· Supportive of the department’s activities and Museum mission

· The flexibility and sensitivity to work with diverse viewpoints and situations

· Good project management skills

Qualifications/Education

· Minimum of MA in Art History; expertise in American art and/or Photography preferred

· Advanced knowledge of research methods in American art

· Previous museum experience desirable

· Experience with collection management systems preferred

· Proficiency in MS Office applications required

Other Job Requirements

· Flexibility with work schedule, including some nights and weekends.

· Must successfully complete MVR, pre-employment and background screenings.

· Smart phone required.

· Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods, operate standard office equipment and navigate Museum facilities.