The Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture (MOAC) seeks an eager individual to support the Boston City Hall Galleries’ operations. The position will offer hands-on experience in gallery administration, exhibition and events coordination, and collections documentation. This individual will assist with the development of a gallery database, exhibition installation, and public programming, gaining direct exposure to arts operations and Boston’s vibrant artistic communities.

This opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented person pursuing a career in arts administration or a related field, particularly someone with experience in art galleries and an interest in managing collections and databases, community engagement, and curatorial opportunities. Familiarity with Boston’s diverse artistic communities and a passion for inclusive engagement are highly valued. The individual will work on an as-needed basis, with the estimated commitment being 10 - 15 hours a week for three months starting in July 2025.

About the Boston City Hall Galleries:

The Boston City Hall Galleries showcase contemporary emerging and mid-career local artists and art organizations. The galleries aim to nurture Boston’s local art scene by displaying a variety of mediums and perspectives that reflect the city’s diversity. Our mission is to provide spaces that present memorable, groundbreaking, concept-driven exhibitions that engage local communities, spark conversations on social issues, and inspire a sense of belonging within Boston City Hall. We acknowledge that our galleries are built on the traditional homeland of the Massachusett people and the home of the neighboring Wampanoag and Nipmuc peoples. Along with the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, we believe the arts play a crucial role in driving social change and creating a thriving, healthy community for all.

About the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture (MOAC):

The Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture is a City agency that enhances the quality of life, the economy, and the design of Boston through the arts. MOAC reinforces the role of the arts in all aspects of life in Boston through equitable access to arts and culture in every community, public institution, and public space. MOAC supports Boston's cultural sector through grants, programs, cultural facilities, artist workspace development, and the commissioning and care of public art. Learn more at www.boston.gov/arts.

Gallery Database Development and Management: Populate data into a comprehensive digital database system for the Boston City Hall Galleries. Collect and add information on past and current exhibitions, including but not limited to:

• Artist names and contact information, artwork titles, mediums, dimensions, creation dates, loan agreements, exhibition dates, photography, and documentation of artworks and installations.
• Organize and categorize digital assets (images, documents) and link them to relevant database entries.
• Develop and maintain a system for tracking artwork inventory, location, and condition.
• Generate reports and lists from the database as needed by MOAC staff.

Gallery Receptions and Events Support: Provide support for gallery receptions and other public events, including assisting with event setup, checking in, greeting and directing visitors, and providing information about the exhibitions and artists.

Exhibition Installation and De-installation Support: Assist the Galleries and Exhibitions Manager with the installation and de-installation of artwork, including art handling, assisting with exhibition layouts, and documenting the installation process.

General Gallery Support: Assist with general administrative tasks as needed, including research on artists, exhibitions, or related topics as requested by MOAC staff, and maintain professional communication when interacting with artists, visitors, and other staff.

This opportunity will offer professional mentorship and hands-on learning experiences. The above-detailed scope of work outlines the expected responsibilities for this role and will be subject to review and potential adjustments to include the individual’s interests and goals in consultation with MOAC.

• Experience working in an art gallery, museum, or similar cultural institution (preferred).
• Understanding of basic art handling and installation techniques.
• Ability to lift and carry objects up to 25 pounds.
• Experience with database management or data entry (preferred)
• Familiarity with Boston’s diverse artistic communities is highly desirable.
• Interest in collections management, curatorial practices, and community engagement.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfort working with diverse communities and engaging in events that reflect Boston’s cultural diversity.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as required for installations and events.

Work Environment:

• In-person attendance is required at the Boston City Hall Galleries.
• Candidates must have access to reliable transportation.
• MOAC will provide access to the gallery spaces, necessary equipment and tools for installation, and relevant information for the database.
• Access to a computer and internet connection will be provided on-site.

Compensation and Duration:

• The Galleries Assistant will be contracted through the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture.
• The pay rate is $20 per hour up to 15 hours a week. The total contract value can not exceed $4,000.
• This position is contracted for an estimated total of three (3) months.
• Payments will be dispersed upon receipt of monthly invoices.
• The position will remain open until filled, with a preferred start date of July 21st.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED