Art + Innovation Program Manager
Locust Projects seeks to hire an Art + Innovation Program Manager who will be responsible for developing and overseeing the organizations’ Digital Innovation Initiative - a multifaceted digital innovation initiative supported by a Knight Foundation grant that supports the application of technology to the creation, presentation and experience of art work by local, national and international artists. The initiative expands upon our mission as an incubator for new art and ideas, inviting artists to explore using digital technology, virtual platforms, and other digital media to create never-before-seen works in our large-scale galleries, online platforms and in non-traditional spaces across our campus and the city. Locust Projects supports risk-taking and creative experimentation by artists encouraging them to push and inform new directions in their practice. The Art + Innovation Program Manager is a full-time position which reports to the Executive Director with a salary + benefits commensurate with experience, and subject to available funding. The range is $70-$80K.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:
- Digital Innovation LAB - Overseeing the development of the new Knight Digital Innovation LAB (aka The DiLL) - housed in approximately 1,000 square feet of space in the new 8,100 sq ft building supported by robust IT infrastructure, open plan and flexible multi-purpose workspace equipped with a range of the latest hardware, software, AV and other equipment to support artistic exploration, experimentation, creation and presentation in art and technology. As a resource for Miami creatives, the DiLL provides fellowships and/or memberships, by-appointment access and hands-on workshops as well as public programs featuring WiP and artist-led workshops for the wider community. In the future, Locust Projects plans to develop an after-school teen workshop series at the LAB, supporting the next generation of creatives as well as future earned income opportunities as a site for production.
- Knight Digital Commissions - This individual will serve in a curatorial and project manager capacity and be responsible for overseeing and coordinating Knight Digital Commissions featuring the production and presentation of new digital projects by local, national and international artists who are selected through a juried open call process and selected by guest curators and artists working in the boundaries of art and technology to create and present innovation commissioned new work for the public to experience across Locust's interior, exterior, and digital spaces.
- Audience Experience – To expand the public experience around the projects, related content would be created and/or presented on digital platforms, from access to in-process views and artist tours in the Metaverse to behind the scenes videos archived on online channels and live streamed public programs:
- develop and experiment with digital platforms for the public to experience and connect with Locust’s artists and exhibitions and related programs;
- ensure Locust’s digital communications and platforms reflect best practices for storytelling,
- represent the organization’s experimental mission and sustain a commitment to serving as the authority in archiving programmatic content we create
- support related grants and reporting and track metrics and oversee the development of future initiatives that connect Locust Projects exhibitions and programs with the public across digital platforms.
- Stay abreast of current and future trends in contemporary art, innovation, and technology.
- Build national and international networks of peers and partner organizations and seek out professional development as necessary to support the initiative.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- You have 3+ years of relevant work and experience in a contemporary arts-related field, specializing in technology, new media, digital transformation, curation, and projects management.
- You are knowledgeable of and interested in a wide variety of contemporary arts disciplines, practices, artists, and creative practitioners.
- You are experienced at supporting artists in the ideation, development, and execution of digital and technology focused projects (for example - digital fabrication, creative coding, physical computing, XR and immersive tech, games, AI/ML).
- You have expertise setting up and running a multi-purpose technology LAB and studio environment with strong fiscal sensibilities of market rates and comfort with a range of computing, fabrication, and immersive hardware and software.
- You have a facilitative mindset coupled with strong organizational expertise.
- You are good at program planning and development. You see and assess the viability of new mission-aligned opportunities and ideas within budget or contributing to ways for funding them whether through grant writing or cultivation as part of development plan. You are comfortable building, testing, iterating, and optimizing programs using research, evaluation, planning, and personal insights.
- You have the capacity to problem-solve. You love taking on new and challenging work, and are self-driven to develop creative, resourceful, and innovative solutions.
- You are good at building relationships. You have a knack for making and maintaining authentic connections to artists, audiences, and young creatives.
- You are good at communicating clearly, candidly, and amiably. You can explain just about anything to anyone, and you are comfortable communicating in writing, by phone, in digital settings, and giving public presentations.
- You like learning new things and can get up to speed quickly. You are agile and able to adapt as things change.
- You have a strong proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, G Suite, and other office, data retrieval, communications, and project management software and technologies.
- You have a personal and professional commitment to learning and development and willingness to participate in related training as may be appropriate.
- Not sure you meet 100% of the qualifications? If this role speaks to you and you believe that you can excel, we encourage you to apply. Locust Projects is committed to considering candidates with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds.
HOW TO APPLY
Locust Projects respects your privacy and assures you that your application and all associated data will be kept confidential. Only the individuals involved in the hiring process will have access to the information you provide, and it will be used solely to evaluate your candidacy for this position. To apply, please follow the instructions below:
- Prepare your cover letter: Review the position description carefully and demonstrate in your cover letter how your relevant experience, skills, and knowledge align with the requirements of the role (2 page maximum). – Optional: PPT or Video Submission no more than 3 min.
- Provide an up to date and relevant Resume/CV (pdf, doc, docx - maximum 4 pages)
- Provide contact details of referees: Include the contact details of two referees on your CV. These referees should know your work or learning capacity (paid or unpaid). Referees will only be contacted at the job offer stage.
- Special arrangements: If you require any special arrangements or accommodations during the application process, please inform us so we can make the necessary arrangements.
- Contact for inquiries: If you have any questions about the job opening or would like to have an initial and confidential conversation about the role, please contact Lorie Mertes, Director director@locustproject.org
Application Timeline:
- Closing date for applications: 11:59pm May 4, 2024 or until filled.
- Interviews are expected to take place in mid-May 2024.
Locust Projects committed to creating a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, political affiliation, or veteran status.
We appreciate your interest in the Art + Innovation Program Manager and look forward to receiving your application