The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) seeks a dynamic and energetic Exhibition Designer in the Department of Exhibition Design & Production.
Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Generating 3D designs and layouts for the museum’s exhibitions, collection galleries, and public spaces. As part of a multi-disciplinary design and production team, this role applies interior, furniture, and architectural design proficiencies to create engaging, accessible spaces for visitors to experience artwork and encounter ideas. This position is integral to the development and execution of special exhibitions and permanent collection displays.
- Working in a project-focused design studio, the exhibition designer brings a positive, creative, and collaborative approach to design development and implementation processes. The exhibition designer provides thoughtful ideas and solutions, contributes and receives valuable peer feedback, and effectively manages design projects within established schedules and budget parameters.
- Reporting to the Senior Exhibition Designer, this position will lead some design projects from concept to completion, as well as assist in implementing components of larger projects under the Senior Exhibition Designer’s direction.
All VMFA staff enjoy museum benefits like free admission to special exhibitions, previews of special exhibitions, employee pricing for select museum programs and classes, and discounts at Amuse Restaurant, Best Cafe, and VMFA Shop.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Proficient with Vectorworks (or equivalent CAD software) to design, draw, and model 3D environments, furnishings, and fixtures.
- Able to clearly present and communicate design ideas to stakeholders through detailed drawings, 3D models, renderings, diagrams, and concept packages, including the use of graphics software (Adobe Creative Suite).
- Experience conceptualizing designs and making aesthetic choices that are appropriate to the subject matter, project and/or client goals, and brand.
- Experience participating in the creation of built environments through all design phases, from concept and creative development through installation.
- Proficient with drafting technical drawings and construction drawing packages that accurately communicate specifications of built environments and exhibition casework to fabricators/contractors.
- Able to hand-craft scale models and full-size mockups as needed.
- Able to capture field measurements and draft existing conditions as a part of the design process.
- Capable of working collaboratively as part of a team within a studio environment as well as independently, in either a lead or supporting role, depending on the project.
- Capable of effectively communication, one-on-one and in group settings, utilizing verbal, written, and visual means to engage a diverse range of staff, outside collaborators, and vendors.
- Capable of managing multiple projects with varying scopes simultaneously, from simple art rotations to complex installations, with lead-times ranging from several days to more than a year.
- Capable of adapting and adjusting as needed to align work with evolving institutional priorities.
- Capable of managing deadlines, tracking work, and communicating via Asana and Microsoft 365.
- Ability to work during staffing shortages, peak times, or in valid emergencies as they occur.
- Ability to travel if necessary.
Additional Considerations
- Knowledgeable about museum standards as they pertain to the display of fine art, including art handling, conservation, and security practices.
- Familiar with fabrication methods, joinery, and finishing of museum exhibition casework.
- Knowledgeable about ADA requirements to ensure equal access and quality of experience, as well as standard safety regulations as they pertain to the design of built environments.