Curator of Public Programmes

Background

Culture& is a Black-led independent arts and education charity based in London, recognized as an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation. The charity, active for over 30 years, collaborates with leading arts and heritage institutions and artists to foster diversity in the workforce and among audiences. Its flagship programme, the New Museum School Advanced Programme, offers 30 fully funded studentships in partnership with the University of Leicester School of Museum Studies from 2021-2024, supporting young arts professionals in achieving postgraduate qualifications.

Recent Programmes and Collaborations

The most ambitious recent public programme was “Cyborgs,” curated with the Wellcome Collection. In 2022, Culture& co-authored the Art Fund Curatorial Diversity Report assessing the past decade’s impact of curatorial diversity programmes. The newly launched Cultural Leaders Programme, in partnership with Sotheby’s Institute of Art, provides three fully funded scholarships in various art disciplines. From 2023-2025, Culture& will curate major multi-site public programmes across UK cities.

Public Programmes

Public Programmes are vital to Culture&’s mission to diversify arts and heritage enjoyment and creation. The programmes engage with current critical thought across disciplines through leadership, events, education, and research, involving a wide range of creative professionals. Culture& collaborates nationally with cultural organizations to enhance the cultural landscape through its interdisciplinary programmes.

Role Context

The Curator of Public Programmes is part of the core team, which includes roles from artistic director to executive assistant. This curator is tasked with researching, developing, coordinating, administering, and delivering Culture&’s Public Programme, including large multi-site festivals centered on diversity themes.

Accountability and Responsibilities

The Curator reports directly to the Artistic Director and is responsible for:

• Developing and delivering a dynamic programme of events, both online and in-person, from 2023-25.
• Managing the Public Programme to meet its objectives within budget and time constraints.
• Overseeing all administration of the Public Programme, ensuring effective project documentation and event management.
• Engaging in fundraising, developing strategic partnerships, and sustaining the programme’s financial health.

Communications and Marketing

The Curator will coordinate with consultants to promote the programme effectively and manage digital content supporting event promotion.

Person Specification

Candidates must have extensive experience in public programming and live events, a deep understanding of contemporary art and heritage issues, and exceptional administrative and project management skills. A commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion in the arts and heritage sectors is essential.

Employment Conditions

This is a 12-month, fixed-term contract starting in June 2024, with a four-day workweek combining remote and in-person attendance. The salary is £33,500 pro rata, with benefits including annual leave, pension contributions, and training opportunities.