Curator / Gallery Producer -- Pop‐up Gallery (Harlem) -- Emerging curato
3 days ago
New York
Job Description Summary Nzinga Café is launching a short‐run pop‐up gallery in Harlem and we’re looking for a driven, young curator already steeped in the NYC art scene who wants to build a name quickly. You’ll program exhibitions, book artists, run install/dismantle, handle press and arts‐community outreach, and drive sales and foot traffic. This is a hands‐on role for someone who hustles, networks, and loves producing memorable, community‐centered shows. Key responsibilities * Conceive, plan, and program 1–2 pop‐up exhibitions (6–8 week or shorter runs) from concept to deinstall. * Source and secure artists (solo and group), negotiate consignment terms, and manage intake logistics. * Create floor plans, hanging maps, labels, and condition reports; supervise install and lighting. * Build and execute press, social, and community outreach strategies targeted to NYC art press, local partners, and collectors. * Produce opening receptions and public programs (talks, workshops, pop‐ups) and manage RSVP/guest lists. * Manage on‐site sales with POS reconciliation and artist payout coordination. * Maintain inventory, consignment paperwork, and insurance documentation. * Act as public face of the gallery at events, fairs, and in the neighborhood; grow the gallery’s collector and press network. * Track show metrics (attendance, sales, press hits) and deliver a short post‐mortem report after each run. Required qualifications * 1–4 years experience in NYC galleries, curatorial programs, arts nonprofits, or equivalent; demonstrable ties to the local art community. * Proven experience programming, installing, and producing exhibitions or events. * Strong written and verbal communication; comfortable pitching press and partners. * Practical skills: basic lighting/hanging knowledge, inventory and condition reporting, familiarity with gallery sales workflows and POS systems. * Self‐starter with reliable availability for evenings and weekends during openings and events. * Professional references from artists, gallerists, or curators. Preferred * Existing press or collector contacts in NYC. * Experience with social media marketing, Eventbrite/Patreon/Ticketing, or email outreach. * Background in community‐centered programming or neighborhood partnerships. * Ability to lead and supervise volunteers or part‐time staff. Compensation * Competitive commission model: curator earns a negotiated percentage of sales generated during the show (typical range: 10–20% of gross sales or a negotiated percentage of the gallery’s net commission). * Additional small stipend or flat fee per show negotiable based on experience and scope. * Opportunity for performance bonuses tied to attendance, press placements, and successful sales milestones. * This role is ideal for someone building their curatorial resume and network; strong results will lead to ongoing collaboration and increased compensation. Why join us * Produce high‐visibility shows in Harlem with genuine community engagement. * Autonomy to shape program and build your curator profile quickly in a supportive, scrappy team. * Direct, measurable impact on sales, press, and cultural programming with guidance from experienced founder/operators. How to apply Email: (replace with contact address) Subject: Curator Application — [Your Name] — availability + preferred start date Please include in a single PDF: * Short cover letter (1 page) describing a recent exhibition or project you produced and the measurable outcomes. * CV or resume. * 3 references (email + phone) and relationship to you. * Optional: 6–8 images (or links) of recent shows you produced and a one‐page show concept you’d propose for a Harlem pop‐up. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; early submissions prioritized. Equal opportunity Nzinga Café is committed to equitable and community‐centered programming. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities. Company DescriptionNzinga Café Gallery is a new pop-up exhibition space launching in the heart of Harlem, designed to spotlight emerging artists and curators through short-run, high-impact shows. Founded by a multidisciplinary entrepreneur with deep roots in Harlem’s creative and community infrastructure, the gallery blends art, culture, and neighborhood engagement in a welcoming, street-level venue. We believe in curatorial autonomy, teardown-safe operations, and community-centered programming. Our exhibitions are built to be accessible, bold, and rooted in Harlem’s legacy of artistic excellence. Whether hosting a solo show, a group installation, or a public workshop, we aim to empower artists and curators to take risks, build networks, and grow visibility. This is not a white-box gallery — it’s a living space for art, dialogue, and cultural exchange. We’re looking for collaborators who bring vision, hustle, and heart.Nzinga Café Gallery is a new pop-up exhibition space launching in the heart of Harlem, designed to spotlight emerging artists and curators through short-run, high-impact shows. Founded by a multidisciplinary entrepreneur with deep roots in Harlem’s creative and community infrastructure, the gallery blends art, culture, and neighborhood engagement in a welcoming, street-level venue.\r\n\r\nWe believe in curatorial autonomy, teardown-safe operations, and community-centered programming. Our exhibitions are built to be accessible, bold, and rooted in Harlem’s legacy of artistic excellence. Whether hosting a solo show, a group installation, or a public workshop, we aim to empower artists and curators to take risks, build networks, and grow visibility.\r\n\r\nThis is not a white-box gallery — it’s a living space for art, dialogue, and cultural exchange. We’re looking for collaborators who bring vision, hustle, and heart.