Arts Handling and Documentation Assistant (temporary)

We are looking for someone with great attention to detail and art handling experience to join the busy Koestler Arts Team for 3 months as we process thousands of artworks from prisons and secure units that have been entered into the annual Koestler Awards. This role will assist with art handling and collection management to help process over 7,000 artworks ready for judging in July and August.

You will unwrap, handle and label multiple artworks every day, some of which are made from unusual materials such as matchsticks, bread and soap, as well as paintings, drawings and sculptures. You will also create and maintain accurate records and documentation of each artwork using established processes and our database Harlequin. Both processes require care, speed and accuracy

What You’ll Do:

Support the safe handling, organisation, and documentation (via both handwritten labels and digital records) of thousands of artworks submitted to the Koestler Awards.
Assist with the efficient processing of artworks for judging, working accurately and to tight deadlines.
Support the Arts Team and volunteers in delivering the annual Koestler Awards programme.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience in unpacking and handling a range of 2D and 3D artworks including textiles, prints, paintings, photographs, sculptures etc.
Experience of creating and managing digital records, for example of using a collections management system for data entry, reporting and retrieval.
Ability to work to deadlines and manage own time effectively.