The KZNSA Gallery in Durban is seeking a highly motivated, organized, and detail- oriented individual to join our team as a Gallery Administrator. This is a key role within our organization, responsible for overseeing the gallery’s exhibition programme, managing relationships with artists, and ensuring the smooth operation of day-to-day activities. The successful candidate will play a vital role in delivering our mission, contributing to the development of the gallery’s activities and the growth
of the KZN arts community.
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The Gallery Administrator will be responsible for managing the administrative and operational aspects of the KZNSA gallery. This includes overseeing the exhibition calendar, coordinating with artists and exhibition service providers, ensuring the proper care and handling of artworks, and overseeing the gallery’s education programme and public engagement activities.
SCOPE OF THE ROLE
As a key team member, the Gallery Administrator will manage the following areas:
- Exhibition Management: Oversee the exhibition calendar and ensure exhibitions are set up and run smoothly.
- Artist Relations: Build and maintain relationships with artists, manage consigned works, and support the online gallery.
- Sales: Facilitate art sales, develop a database of collectors.
- Programming: Assist with event programming, including workshops and education activities.
- Publicity and Communications: Oversee publicity efforts, manage the gallery’s online presence, and work with the Publicity Officer to promote exhibitions and events.
- Logistics & Operations: Coordinate the logistics for exhibitions, art fairs, and events, ensuring all operational needs are met.
- Education and LAB Programme: Support the programming and operations of the KZNSA LAB and educational initiatives.
- Administrative Support: Manage memberships, maintain accurate records, handle financial transactions, and assist with general gallery operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Serve on the Exhibition Sub Committee, assist with exhibition proposals, and develop the annual exhibition calendar.
- Manage the logistical aspects of exhibitions, including artwork delivery, installation, insurance, condition reports, and loan agreements.
- Ensure that the gallery space remains clean and exhibitions are set up according to the curator’s vision.
- Assist in the creation of exhibition labels, catalogues, price lists, and promotional materials.
- Oversee all gallery publicity.
- Build and maintain a database of collectors, ensure art sales are recorded, and facilitate communications related to artwork sales.
- Foster strong relationships with artists, providing support throughout their exhibitions and ensuring consigned artworks are well-managed.
- Oversee the administration of the KZNSA membership programme and assist with member related queries.
- Oversee the operations of the KZNSA LAB to manage bookings for educational activities, such as school visits, workshops, and walkabouts, and ensuring materials are available and staff are equipped to deliver educational programming.
- Handle financial administration related to art sales, venue hire, and membership processing.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- A strong interest in and knowledge of contemporary art.
- Excellent people and communication skills, with an ability to engage with artists, visitors, and the public.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
- Competency in Office software (Word, Excel, etc.) and experience with Photoshop, InDesign, and website content management (preferred).
- Strong project management skills, including coordination of multiple stakeholders and deadlines.
- Good sales skills and an understanding of art sales and gallery management.
- Ability to work independently, with flexibility and a collaborative attitude.
- Attention to detail, especially when handling artworks, contracts, and financial records.
DESIRED EXPERIENCE
- Prior experience working in a gallery, museum, or arts-related environment is an advantage.
- Proven experience in event planning, public relations, or arts administration.
- Experience with managing educational or community outreach programmes is a plus.
About the KZNSA
The KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts (KZNSA) is one of the premier galleries in the region, dedicated to promoting and exhibiting contemporary visual arts. We provide a dynamic space for local and national artists, fostering creative exchange and public
engagement with art.
We look forward to receiving your application and learning more about how you can contribute to the success of the KZNSA gallery.