Preparator & Installation Coordinator

SOMArts Cultural Center

SOMArts Cultural Center

SOMArts Cultural Center seeks an organized, detail-oriented and personable Preparator and Installation Manager to collaborate with SOMArts Gallery and Facilities departments. This position will be the lead preparator for all Main Gallery exhibition installations and deinstallations. They will coordinate installation schedules, artwork drop offs, and deinstallations. During gaps in Gallery installation cycles Lead Preparator will assist with facilities and rental events.

Read more: https://somarts.org/opportunities/

Responsibilities

Preparator and Installation Manager is responsible for the coordination, handling and installation of artwork in (8) exhibitions throughout the year approximately every 4–6 weeks. Main duties include:

  • Art handling

  • Prepare, hang, install and de-install works of art utilizing proper handling and security techniques.

  • Safe rigging of overhead artworks, projectors, and other items from gallery lighting grid, including pipe rigging and other artwork support structures.

  • Installation and operation of exhibition multimedia hardware, e.g. TV mounts, projectors, media players, etc.

  • Paint and/or construct walls, pedestals, boxes, fixtures, and other finished structures related to the installation and display of exhibitions and works of art.

  • Complete condition reports.

  • Pack/unpack artwork when needed.

  • Coordinate the production of and installation of exhibition and general facility wall vinyl, and work closely with the Gallery Director with regard to the planning and execution of these shows.

  • Coordinate with Gallery Director on supply and equipment research, procurement, and budgeting.

  • Maintain an updated inventory list (podiums, stanchions, tech equipment)

  • Assist with gallery event setup as needed, including tables/chairs, risers, and basic A/V.

  • Schedule contractor support as needed for exhibition installations/deinstallations

  • Draft exhibition on/off instructions

Installation Coordination

  • Assist with the design and layout of exhibitions

  • Responds promptly to emails from staff, artists, and curators

  • Work closely with Gallery Director and curators to plan and manage technical needs and schedules for exhibitions and programs, communicating scheduling details, installation plans, artist needs, changes, etc.

  • Collect artwork loan agreements, artist contracts, and installation deliverables in preparation for exhibition installations

  • Oversee the installation and deinstallation of exhibitions

  • Coordinate with exhibition curators regarding materials, layout, and technical needs of their exhibitions. Attend planning and production meetings.

  • Review floor plans for achievability and navigability with regard to ADA’s Design for Accessibility standards.

  • Provide instructions to turn on each exhibition before the first day of the exhibition.

  • Collect, create, and install artwork labels and any other necessary gallery signage

  • Assist Gallery Director and Director of Technical Operations with production of ‘Virtual Gallery’ online tour production and proofing.

Facilities & Event Support

  • Patching, painting, sanding, and wood treatment of walls and surfaces in SOMArts facility. Wall preparation and restore for rental events.

  • Assist Director of Site Operations and Maintenance Coordinator with cosmetic facilities upkeep projects, e.g. painting upkeep of offices and public spaces.

  • Assist Director of Technical Operations with physical setup and strike for rental events including tables/chairs, risers, basic A/V.

  • Safe rigging of overhead artworks, projectors, and other items from the gallery lighting grid, including pipe rigging and other support structures.

Requirements
  • 2-3 years of experience in a related field.

  • Able to stand, walk and sit.

  • Ability to work at heights up to 20 feet on aerial lifts or ladders.

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to talk or hear.

  • English language proficiency in both spoken and written form

  • Knowledge of power & woodworking tool safety fundamentals.

  • Familiarity with construction standards for media equipment mounts and enclosures

  • Knowledge of signal flow for audio and video installations.

  • Familiarity with both Mac OS and Windows operating systems. Functional knowledge of productivity software.

  • Positive attitude, with the ability to handle conflicts respectfully and professionally.

  • A developed eye for detail and ability to complete tasks thoroughly and efficiently.

  • Willingness to work alongside contemporary works of art and performances that present challenging and provocative subject matter.

  • Knowledge of safety precautions and procedures related to the handling of solvents, adhesives, and other fabrication-related solutions.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter describing your experience and why you’re interested in the job to gallery@somarts.org. Please include contact information for two professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please no phone calls.

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Posted on September 19