Call for curators: Indigenous instruments exhibition

An exciting exhibition will be installed at the University of Johannesburg for a month in February 2025, showcasing a wide range of traditional musical instruments from all over the African continent. The successful candidate will coordinate the installation of the exhibition, including selection of the instruments, logistics, partner engagement and aesthetics.  

Key responsibilities

• Play a leading role in the selection of instruments, theme and other related aspects.
• Devise a fitting venue layout plan.
• Source instruments from available partners and suppliers.
• Contribute to the research, development and presentation of the exhibition.
• Manage and handle sensitive artefacts.
• Catalogue exhibition instruments.
• Display objects from the collection in a way that makes them accessible and engaging to the general public.
• Write materials and articles for the museum or gallery website and internal or external publications.
• Assume responsibility for all sourced instruments ensuring their safe transportation to different locations.
• Attend meetings and workshops with the project team and partners.
• Coordinate events and other activities related to the exhibition.
• Perform other related duties.

 Skills and requirements

• A degree in art history or related studies
• A minimum of seven years’ experience in a similar role.
• The candidate must be able to demonstrate a clear vision of their own curatorial practice.
• Strong experience in the creative/arts sector
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Flexibility and ability to work evenings and weekends as needed to oversee the project
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, French advantageous.

How to apply

This call is open to individuals. The deadline for application is 30 September 2024.

Applicants are requested to submit the following (mandatory):

• An up-to-date CV
• A cover letter detailing and illustrating your experience.
• Proof of similar curatorial projects completed successfully in the past.
• At least three references.
• An indication of financial expectations.

All applications can be submitted in English to MIAF Projects Manager Ms Violet Maila at violet@musicinafrica.net with ‘Curator’ in the subject line.

The Music In Africa Instrument Building and Repair project is funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) with additional support from Afrikayna through the VITA - Instrumenthèque d'Afrique project and Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), Siemens Stiftung Goethe Institut, University Of Johannesburg, Constitution Hill’s Creative Uprising Hub and Ukhozi FM.