The Maxwell Museum of Anthropology at the University of New Mexico seeks a Curator of Exhibits to coordinate and lead a wide-ranging program of permanent, temporary, and virtual exhibitions. The Maxwell Museum is a dynamic center of anthropological research and public engagement on the University of New Mexico campus, producing multiple in-person and virtual exhibitions and public and educational programs annually. Based in a culturally diverse state and region, the Museum hosts two-four temporary exhibitions per year, often but not always drawing on the Museum’s extensive archaeological, ethnographic, and photographic collections. In addition, the Museum is in the midst of a multi-year process to reimagine and reinstall its two permanent exhibitions. The successful candidate will be a core member of the Museum’s interpretation staff and will join a dedicated team of museum professionals in education, public programs, collections, and administration committed to serving and expanding our diverse audiences. They will work with a variety of partners to develop and support exhibitions and associated programs that align with the Museum’s mission of “working toward greater understandings of the fullness of human experiences in the Southwest and the world” and vision of “reconciling injustices, restoring voices, and realizing community.”
We seek an experienced, creative, forward-thinking, collegial museum professional to work collaboratively with museum and guest curators and museum staff to lead and coordinate the Maxwell Museum’s exhibition program. Reporting to the Director, the Head of Exhibits will actively manage and participate in the evaluation of exhibition proposals; oversee the development, design, construction, and evaluation of exhibitions; maintain production schedules and long-term exhibition calendars; and supervise permanent and temporary exhibition staff. They will participate in a collaborative team with exhibition curators, the Curator of Education, Head of Public Programs, and other Museum staff in the development of cohesive educational content and programming for the Museum’s diverse audiences. They will actively participate in strategic planning and contribute to the Museum’s ongoing commitment to achieve, evaluate, and improve its success in advancing its mission and vision. They will provide opportunities for UNM students in anthropology, museum studies, education, and other programs to gain experience and participate in the development and implementation of exhibitions.
