Ohio Arts Council's Riffe Gallery Seeking Marketing and Exhibitions Fellow

The Ohio Arts Council (OAC), a national leader in arts administration, is seeking a dynamic, motivated marketing candidate for a high-quality professional learning opportunity. Designed in partnership with the Columbus Arts Marketing Association (CAMA), this is a paid, part-time, 1–2-year position.

The person chosen for this position will gain hands-on, practical experience in a professional art gallery. The OAC Riffe Gallery Marketing and Exhibitions Fellow will be exposed to a variety of exhibitions and innovative programs, along with opportunities to explore and discover their leadership voice.

The OAC Riffe Gallery Fellow will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with an energetic staff; grow professionally and practice new skills; contribute meaningfully to the success of the OAC Riffe Gallery; and implement the latest communication strategies in the arts and culture sector. In addition, the fellow will have the opportunity to attend networking events to connect with marketing professionals.

The deadline to apply is Friday, May 6, 2022, at midnight. Only complete application packages will be accepted for consideration.

The ideal candidate will work in collaboration with the OAC Riffe Gallery director to accomplish the following, and additional duties and responsibilities.

Marketing and Communications:

• Create a marketing timeline, virtual resources, and content calendars for each exhibition.
• Oversee the production and editing schedule for exhibition print materials, advertising, and signage.
• Prepare and distribute digital media kits to key media outlets.
• Mail and distribute marketing collateral to various businesses and organizations in Columbus.
• Manage online calendars and event listings.
• Participate in meetings and conversations regarding exhibitions and marketing strategies.
• Develop and manage current exhibition virtual resources, recorded programs, and online archive.
• Develop a working understanding of OAC identity and style to ensure a consistent voice across platforms and publications.
• Work in collaboration with the OAC communications strategist to write media releases; create and release electronic exhibition announcements; maintain the OAC Riffe Gallery Facebook page and Instagram; and write and post web content for each exhibition.

Exhibitions & Administrative Support:

• Assist in preparing for and implementing special events, including but not limited to exhibition openings, friends and family workshops, artist talks and demonstrations, and creative writing workshops.
• Follow policies and procedures of the OAC Riffe Gallery, the Ohio Arts Council, and the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• One year or more of marketing experience in an art gallery, museum, or cultural institution; a bachelor's degree in marketing and communications is preferred
• Enrolled in a communications, marketing, and/or public relations degree program OR possess work experience in the aforementioned fields. 
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to interact with the public with an enthusiastic, positive attitude. 
• Practical knowledge of and interest in social media, web technologies, and content management systems; familiarity with MailChimp, YouTube, Facebook/Instagram, and WordPress is preferred.
• Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office, and Adobe Creative Suite (particularly Photoshop and InDesign). 
• Ability to meet deadlines and balance multiple projects at a time.
• Ability to work both collaboratively and independently. 
• Gather and analyze data such as attendance figures, surveys, etc.
• Strong interest in the visual arts, arts administration, and arts marketing.
• Active membership with the Columbus Arts Marketing Association (CAMA), upon acceptance of fellowship.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to perform some of the functions of this position.

• Ability to lift and carry 40 lbs.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, stoop, and crouch.

Term and Compensation of Fellowship:

• 24 - 32 hours per week from July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2024.
• The selected fellow will be paid an hourly rate between $17.00 and $20.00 depending on experience and level of education.
• College credit may be available for current students, based on university requirements.

Schedule and Location:

The OAC Riffe Gallery is seeking a candidate who can work 24 - 30 hours per week for 24 months beginning in July 2022 through June 30, 2024. Flexible scheduling is available.

The OAC Riffe Gallery Marketing and Exhibitions Fellow will work in-person at the OAC Riffe Gallery in the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts, located at 77 South High Street, Columbus, OH  43215.

Application Instructions:

Please submit the following items to the OAC Riffe Gallery Director Cat Sheridan by email: cat.sheridan@oac.ohio.gov

• Cover letter that succinctly and specifically describes: 1) why you are interested in working with the OAC Riffe Gallery; and 2) your relevant experience for this opportunity.
• Resumé or CV
• Writing samples and/or a concise portfolio of relevant work. Electronic files in .pdf format are encouraged. Links to online files/resources are also acceptable.