Blithewold seeks an experienced, collaborative Curator to steward its considerable collections – including furnishings, decorative arts, costumes, and archives – ensuring their preservation, documentation, and meaningful interpretation for the public. This is a full-time, on-site position reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the horticulture, education, and visitor experience teams. The ideal candidate will have strong museum standards expertise, exceptional organizational ability, and a passion for connecting visitors to history through authentic, well-researched interpretation. A thoughtful, dynamic storyteller—effective in person and through publications, programs, and social media—is essential.
Key Responsibilities
Collections Management
- Oversee the care, preservation, and documentation of Blithewold’s historic collections and archives of over 10,000 accessioned items.
- Oversee the maintenance and enhancement of the collections database (PastPerfect); ensure accurate digital records, object condition reports, and cataloging.
- Monitor environmental conditions and implement preventive conservation measures.
- Coordinate conservation treatments with outside specialists as needed.
Exhibitions & Interpretation
- Develop interpretive plans, temporary and rotating exhibitions, and room installations that illuminate Blithewold’s history and cultural significance.
- Collaborate with education staff to create engaging materials such as tour scripts, signage, publications, and digital content.
- Lead research initiatives to expand historical knowledge and ensure interpretation is accurate, inclusive, and compelling.
Operational & Collaborative Work
- Train and support staff and volunteers in collections handling, interpretive best practices, and house tour content.
- Assist with special events, seasonal displays, and public programs.
- Participate in strategic planning related to preservation, master planning, and guest experience.
Qualifications
- MA in Museum Studies, Public History, Art History, Decorative Arts, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
- 5–10 years of curatorial or collections experience in a historic house or museum setting.
- Strong knowledge of collections care standards, cataloging practices, and preventive conservation.
- Excellent research, writing, and interpretive skills.
- Familiarity with PastPerfect or similar collections management software.
- Ability to navigate multi-story historic spaces.
Compensation & Schedule
- Full-time, exempt position; some weekends and/or evenings required for programs and events.
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Benefits include 75% individual health insurance coverage, 6% retirement match, HRA/HSA stipend, generous PTO, life insurance, and professional development support.
If you are interested in this position, please contact our Executive Director, Karen Binder, at [email protected] with a copy of your resume or call 401-253-2707 ext. 12.