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Parking OPPORTUNITIES
Interested in joining the ICA team? Visit VCU eJobs to discover current opportunities. Only electronic applications submitted via VCU eJobs will be accepted. Materials sent to the ICA’s staff offices and email accounts will not be considered. For Federal Work Study opportunities, please apply via Handshake.
Applications will be reviewed until positions are filled or unless otherwise stated. Phone calls and emails to staff are respectfully discouraged.
STAFF OPENINGS
Executive Director of the Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University
The executive director will provide the creative vision, leadership and strategic direction for the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU (ICA), shaping its role as an outstanding arts institution and part of the highly ranked School of the Arts (VCUarts). Reporting directly to the Dean of VCUarts, who also serves as the Special Assistant to the Provost for VCUarts Qatar, the executive director has a secondary reporting relationship to the University Provost. This position is an Executive and Senior Leader Staff position; however, candidates may be eligible for a term (non-tenure eligible) faculty appointment depending upon their qualifications and experience. The executive director could teach in a discipline that aligns with their area of expertise. Within the context of VCUarts’ mission, the executive director will leverage the ICA’s unique positioning in an arts and design school, within an R1 research university, at the intersection of Richmond’s rich and diverse community.
In close collaboration with the VCUarts dean, the executive director will articulate a dynamic and inclusive institutional vision and shape programming that will motivate and galvanize staff and build active participation and support from community members. The executive director will support the curatorial staff in planning and executing an ambitious exhibition and public programming schedule of the highest quality. The executive director will work collaboratively with the VCUarts dean, department chairs and faculty to identify and maximize opportunities for mutual support and integration between VCUarts and its constituents and the educational offerings at the ICA. The executive director will build relationships to strengthen the ICA’s network to include other units across the university, keeping in mind that the entire faculty and student body of VCU are important audiences.
Immediate and Ongoing Responsibilities
The executive director will have the following priorities:
● Know VCU and its School of the Arts thoroughly; learn its history and culture, educational and public programs, operations, and constituents; understand its base of support and its potential
● Develop, along with the VCUarts Dean, staff, and key volunteers, a programmatic vision for the ICA that reflects a commitment to excellence and “the new,” a foundation in contemporary art, and a dedication to programming that is made accessible to a wide range of audiences; embrace technology and new media in order to meet audiences when and where they want to learn
● Under the direction of the dean, the executive director will closely collaborate with the faculty, key volunteer leaders, staff, students, and community to incorporate the ICA into VCUarts’ strategic plan that aligns with the university’s strategic plan, Quest 2028: One VCU Together We Transform
● Identify avenues for introducing contemporary art and the ICA to the broadest audience possible; be an active participant and leader in the cultural arena and position the ICA as a convener and catalyst; identify opportunities to collaborate across a broad spectrum of regional, national and international arts institutions
● Remain abreast of current thinking and trends in contemporary art and informed about exhibitions and programming in peer institutions
● Forge strong and sustainable working relationships within VCUarts and VCU; contribute to the leadership and development of new and multidisciplinary connections across the university
● Develop and engage with existing support entities such as the ICA Advisory Board and the Development Committee, among others, to allow active collaboration; serve as a visionary leader, encouraging all collaborators’ interests in advances in contemporary art and keeping them informed on a regular basis; help identify and cultivate the next generation of leaders
● Engage in and support philanthropic outreach and public service efforts for the ICA
● Create a sustainable financial model, understanding and shaping the financial dynamics of the organization, developing budgets, managing the ICA fiscal affairs and setting strategic, operational and financial direction
● Work closely with the ICA’s communications and development staff to grow and expand its reach to include local, regional, national and international audiences, and develop the financial and fundraising plans necessary to provide for financial sustainability
● Inspire, motivate and develop ICA staff and volunteers
● Develop and implement initiatives that reflect a commitment to community engagement, social justice and education in support of the university’s mission to increase student access
● Cultivate and sustain an inclusive, diverse, welcoming and accessible environment for all
● Develop short- and long-range plans and continually ensure that policies are evaluated, implemented and congruent with institutional goals and industry best practices
Qualifications and Characteristics
The ICA seeks a visionary leader who is future-focused, daring and bold. The executive director will be a convener of extraordinary ideas and a curious, inspiring, innovative, entrepreneurial and experienced leader who brings to the role a record of achievement reflective of the ICA’s standards of excellence.
The executive director will demonstrate:
● An understanding of and commitment to contemporary art, knowledge of the international art world and its key players, and an ability to translate this awareness into meaningful collaborations and exhibitions for the institution that speak to the internal campus and external audiences
● Senior-level administrative experience in an arts organization known for quality and excellence and familiarity with a contemporary art museum/gallery setting
● Ability to develop, articulate and implement a shared strategic vision and plan and unite others around common goals
● Proven experience in administration, infrastructure development, and budget and facilities management
● Ability to guide and empower a dynamic and creative team
● Direct experience planning and implementing innovative and experimental programming
● Ability to build and nurture relationships with a wide range of individuals from artists to academics to collectors to business and civic leaders
● A record of fundraising success and the ability to serve as the chief fundraiser for the ICA to proactively address development needs, build a substantial endowment fund, and cultivate existing as well as new donors and patrons while ensuring that sound fundraising strategies are in place
● Effectiveness as an enthusiastic and motivating spokesperson and ambassador for an institution or program; excellent interpersonal, verbal, writing and public speaking skills
● Demonstrated evidence of fostering a welcoming and productive environment for faculty, staff, students and visitors
● A master’s or doctoral degree in an appropriate discipline
● Professional experience in an academic environment is a decided plus; knowledge of American Alliance of Museums standards and practices is desired
● Commitment to bringing cultural experiences to wide and diverse audiences
● Conversant in the use of technology and digital media in promoting an institution, reaching audiences and creating innovative and engaging exhibitions and programs
To read the full job description and to apply click here
STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES
Media Production Internship
The ICA is seeking a production intern to join the VPM+ICA Community Media Center. The intern will work on production tasks for the media center, including videography, sound recording and editing for digital platforms. The intern will work closely with media center staff to produce digital goods that reach its audience of producers and the general public.
Position Details
The internship is for the 2024-2025 academic year. This for-credit, unpaid internship is designed for degree-seeking students to gain hands-on experience in a professional museum setting.
Requirements: Students will complete 9-10 hours per week of internship duties in exchange for 3 hours of credit
Job responsibilities:
The student chosen for this position will work with state-of-the-art equipment and editing software to produce portfolio quality work that contributes to media center projects, including:ideography of Media Center events such as RESONATE Podcast Festival, audio recording for interviews, and editing. You will interact with the communications team to produce this footage for social media platforms and internal promotion materials.
Minimum requirements:
● Some experience with videography and audio recording equipment
● Some experience with video and audio editing software
Preferred qualifications:
● Good communication skills
● Evidence of previous production work
How to apply:Please submit your cover letter, current resume, and any relevant portfolio links no later than July 30, 2024, to icainternship@vcu.edu. Applications will begin being reviewed April 20 and interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Please ensure the subject line reads “Media Production Internship”
Digital Collections Internship
The ICA is excited to offer the Digital Collections Internship for the 2024-2025 academic year. This for-credit, unpaid internship is an exceptional opportunity for students interested in digital asset management and contemporary art. The intern will work closely with the ICA’s Registrar/Digital Assets Manager on the ongoing development and implementation of the Digital Asset Management System (DAMS). This role is designed to provide practical experience with digital collections management, enhance understanding of database systems like Asset Bank, and foster engagement with contemporary artworks and digital assets across the museum.
Position Details
The internship is for the 2024-2025 academic year. This internship is designed for degree-seeking students in good standing to gain hands-on experience in a professional museum setting. Interns will have the chance to work with ICA staff across divisions, gaining a broad exposure to museum operations and digital asset management.
Requirements: Students will complete 9-10 hours per week of internship duties in exchange for 3 hours of credit.
Tasks & Duties:
● Assist in the migration and organization of legacy digital assets.
● Improve asset discoverability by enhancing descriptive metadata.
● Participate in meetings and collaborative discussions to contribute to digital asset management strategies.
Possible Projects:
● Collaborate with staff from various divisions to devise a plan for archiving video assets.
● Facilitate the integration of assets between our DAMS and JSTOR.
Conduct data clean-up activities on assets related to performance art.
Requirements & Qualifications:
● Ability to learn and navigate database systems.
● Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
● Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with a focus on Excel.
● The ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
● Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
Preferred Experiences:
● Understanding of archival best practices.
● Previous use of asset or collections management software.
● Experience in handling audio-visual materials.
● Ability to carry out independent research.
● A keen interest in contemporary art.
How to Apply:
Please submit your cover letter, current resume, and any relevant portfolio links no later than July 30, 2024, to icainternship@vcu.edu. Applications will begin being reviewed April 20 and interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Please ensure the subject line reads “Digital Collections Internship”
Design Internship
The ICA is seeking a Design Intern for the 2024-2025 academic year to work under the Director of Facilities and Experience Design, the intern will play a role in showcasing how design, urban planning, architecture, and art can incorporate natural and recycled materials to combat climate change effects beneficially for Richmond’s community, flora, fauna, and climate.
Through hands-on work with various digital tools, graphic, and 3D modeling software, the intern will refine and define project plans, producing renderings and additional materials to support the project’s advocacy and realization efforts.
Position Details
This for-credit, unpaid internship is geared toward degree-seeking students in good standing.. The intern will have the chance to contribute significantly to a project with the potential to positively impact the Richmond community and environment.
Requirements: Students will complete 9-10 hours per week of internship duties in echange for 3 hours of credit.
Tasks & Duties:
● Collaborate closely with the ICA’s Director of Facilities and Experience Design to generate accurate and engaging project renderings.
● Utilize digital tools and software for graphic and 3D modeling to develop detailed plans and visual materials.
● Participate in daily meetings with the supervisor to discuss design strategies, iterations, and progress.
● Maintain an hours log to document time spent and tasks accomplished.
Learning Outcomes:
● Gain firsthand experience in applying design and urban planning principles to real-world environmental challenges.
● Learn to use design as a tool for community engagement and environmental sustainability.
● Develop professional presentation skills and create a portfolio of design work and related assets.
Requirements & Qualifications:
● Foundation in digital design tools and 3D modeling software.
● Interest in sustainable design, urban planning, and community engagement.
● Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
● Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
● Effective communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
Preferred Experiences:
● Experience in environmental design or urban planning projects.
● Familiarity with using design to address climate change issues.
● Creativity in employing natural and upcycled materials in design.
How to Apply:
Please submit your cover letter, current resume, and any relevant portfolio links no later than July 30, 2024, to icainternship@vcu.edu. Applications will begin being reviewed April 20 and interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Please ensure the subject line reads “Design Internship”
Content Marketing Internship
The ICA is seeking a content marketing intern to join the Marketing & Communications team.The intern will work on a wide variety of projects, including creation and coordination of digital content for the ICA (social media, digital ads, emails, audio, video, and web content), supporting PR/Media Relations effort. The intern will work closely with members of the entire ICA team to build the ICA brand and engage target audiences.
Position Details
The internship is for the 2024-2025 academic year. The intern will work 15 hours per week and will be paid an hourly rate of $15-$20/hour (commensurate with experience), primarily onsite at the ICA with some remote work flexibility. The intern must be a degree-seeking student in good standing.
The student chosen for the position will have the opportunity to work with strategists, marketers,a PR agency, video producers, writers, designers, curators, and podcast producers. They will be an integral part of the ICA team and have the opportunity to learn about all aspects of communications, content creation, branding, and strategy. They will also have the opportunity to attend video shoots, photoshoots, and podcast recording sessions, along with other ICA events and programs. The ideal candidate will have strong writing skills along with an interest to learn about content creation and strategy in the world of art, culture, and education.
The responsibilities of the position are meant to provide an experience that is of mutual benefit to the ICA and the intern. The intern will gain experience in the following areas:
Job responsibilities:
● Assisting in the creation of meaningful content for social media and web platforms
● Assisting in addressing media requests and tracking ICA media coverage
● Updating event calendars and assist in maintaining editorial calendars and marketing plans
● Supporting the Digital Engagement Strategist in the creation of email and social campaigns, fulfillment of paid social media ads, tracking audience engagement, and developing content strategies.
● Supporting the production and distribution of video and audio content
Assisting with the marketing and promotion of programs, exhibitions, and events at the ICA
Minimum requirements:
● Experience posting content on major social media platforms
● Demonstrated experience writing and making content for digital platforms
● Excellent written communication skills
● Experience working in G-Suite and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Adobe Premiere)
● An interest in photography and video production
Preferred qualifications:
● Basic knowledge of HTML
● Experience using WordPress and MailChimp
● Experience with video production and image/photo editing
● Social media community management
● Experience working in a professional environment
How to apply: Please submit your cover letter, current resume, and any relevant portfolio links no later than July 30, 2024, to icainternship@vcu.edu. Applications will begin being reviewed April 20 and interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Please ensure the subject line reads “Content Marketing Internship”
Audio Visual Internship
The ICA is seeking an Audio Visual Intern to assist the Lead AV Technician. This internship position is an opportunity for students to gain valuable, hands-on experience in the technical aspects of audiovisual production within a museum setting. Under the supervision of our Lead AV Technician, the intern will engage in a range of activities supporting the ICA’s programming and events.
Position Details
The internship is for the 2024-2025 academic year. This for-credit, unpaid internship is designed for degree-seeking students in good standing to receive college credit while gaining hands-on experience in a professional museum setting.
Requirements: Requirements: Students will complete 9-10 hours per week of internship duties in exchange for 3 hours of credit.
Job responsibilities:
Under the guidance of the Lead Audio Visual Technician, the ICA Audio Visual Intern will work with state-of-the-art equipment in the ICA auditorium, learning best practices for pre-performance, performance, and post-performance for VCUarts and ICA live programs and classes. Additionally, the Audio Visual Intern will work with the Lead Audio Visual Technician on the organization of the institution’s digital media archives, equipment inventory, and routine maintenance
Minimum requirements:
● Applicants should have an interest in lighting, sound, projection, and/or stage management
● Applicants should be able to demonstrate the relevance of the internship to their degree program or professional goals
● Flexibility to work occasional nights or weekends
Preferred qualifications:
● Experience with or Interest in working in a creative environment Experience with Google Suite
● Knowledge or experience in lighting, sound, projection, and/or stage management
How to apply: Please submit your cover letter, current resume, and any relevant portfolio links no later than July 30, 2024, to icainternship@vcu.edu. Applications will begin being reviewed April 20 and interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Please ensure the subject line reads “Audio Visual Internship”
Visitor Experience Associate
Are you a VCU student looking for Federal Work Study opportunities? Join our front-of-house team!
The ICA is looking for part-time Visitor Experience Associates (VEAs) for the upcoming school year. Our VEAs are the public face of the institution and will work to welcome all visitors at the front desk, help orient visitors in the galleries, and assist with special events, programs, and our retail and café spaces.
This position is open ONLY to current Federal Work Study-qualified VCU students. The pay is $15/hr.
If you feel that you’d be a good fit this position, apply via Handshake today.