The Grippe Curatorial Fellow is responsible for the Peter Grippe Collection, comprised of about 12,000 works of art, including sculpture, paintings, prints, drawings, collages, printing plates, and sketchbooks by Peter Grippe, with additional works by his wife, Florence Grippe, and a small selection of prints and drawings by other artists. Known primarily as a sculptor and printmaker, Grippe took on the directorship of Atelier 17, the renowned and influential print workshop, in the early 1950s in New York. This position is full-time, one-year appointment..(Full-time, one-year appointment)
Key Responsibilities
- Make recommendations regarding accessioning and dispersal for works of art in the Grippe Collection. Provide specific recommendations for institutions to which to donate and a selection of works to offer to each. Make recommendations for dealers and auction houses to approach for possible sale of works. Contact institutions, dealers, and auction houses to complete the dispersal of the collection.
- Evaluate condition of artworks to determine whether conservation is necessary.
- Write a narrative explaining the criteria and reasoning for the selection of works from the Grippe Collection recommended for accessioning into the Allentown Art Museum’s permanent collection. This will be based upon an evaluation of the Grippe collection as a whole, with consideration of how this collection fits into the Allentown Art Museum’s print collection, American art collection, and overall collections.
- Conduct research as necessary to complete this work.
- Catalogue accessioned works from the Grippe Collection and enter information into database.
- Assist with an exhibition of proofs, printing plates, and editioned prints from the landmark portfolio 21 Etchings and Poems.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Art History or a related field
- 1-3 years museum experience preferred
- Knowledge of prints preferred
- Art handling experience preferred
- Excellent research and writing skills
- High level of organizational skills, aptitude for detail, and ability to work well independently
- Strong time management and interpersonal skills
Application Instructions
Applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter outlining how their qualifications and experiences align with the position description. State and federal clearances and a background check (including a criminal-records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can begin work. Submit application to mvalerio@allentownartmuseum.org by June 15.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The Allentown Art Museum is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate against persons on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, medical condition, or covered veteran status.
The Allentown Art Museum, a distinguished institution in the arts and cultural sector, has been a leader in art education and public engagement for more than ninety years. The Museum is dedicated to leveraging its extensive collection and diverse programming to inspire, educate, and engage audiences from all backgrounds.
Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not exhaustive. Tasks and responsibilities may be added, modified, or removed as needed.