Winnipeg, Manitoba, May 14, 2015: The Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Department of History at the University of Winnipeg announce the search for the first Chair in the History of Indigenous Arts of North America, a new, shared position. Scheduled to begin August 1, 2015, the Chair is at the rank of Assistant Professor and Assistant Curator.
“This historic partnership between the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the University of Winnipeg builds on a strong foundation of joint-programming in arts education,” states Dr. Stephen Borys, WAG Director & CEO and adjunct professor in UWinnipeg’s history department. “The WAG’s special focus on Canadian and Indigenous art, combined with UWinnipeg’s commitment to Indigenous studies, creates an ideal setting for this unique position that will engage students, Gallery visitors, and the public with Indigenous art. Teaching in the university’s graduate Cultural Studies program,” Borys notes, “I work with students who are constantly rethinking and challenging the boundaries and templates for the museum today, art history and cultural theory, and contemporary art practice–and this new chair will add weight and profile to these critical dialogues in the academy, museum, and community.”
The new Chair/Curator will be primarily responsible for researching and developing a series of courses and exhibitions designed to engage, enhance, and develop the area of Indigenous art history at both the University and the Gallery. Situated at the cultural crossroads of Indigenous art, knowledge, and material culture, the position aligns with the goals of inclusivity, accessibility, diversity, and public engagement as stated within the strategic plans for the WAG and UWinnipeg.
“This position reflects The University of Winnipeg’s commitment to learning from the tremendous artistic and cultural achievements of Indigenous peoples,” says Dr. Annette Trimbee, President and Vice-Chancellor of UWinnipeg. “Our futures are interlinked and I am so pleased that UWinnipeg and our partners at the Winnipeg Art Gallery are at the forefront of building understanding and cultural literacy.”
Applications for the three-year term position are encouraged from all research specialties. The successful candidate will have a strong commitment to research, undergraduate teaching, and curatorial and museum work, particularly with contemporary Indigenous art. In addition to the academic requisites, a proven record in curatorial work with a recognized museum or gallery is expected.
“The establishment of this new Chair in the History of Indigenous Arts of North America, developed in partnership with the Winnipeg Art Gallery, is a unique opportunity to develop and promote academic scholarship and curatorial excellence within this field,” says Dr. Eliakim Sibanda, Chair of the Department of History, UWinnipeg. “This partnership will give us access to different and rich sources of knowledge and skills. I look forward with anticipation to our newest member’s contributions to the History of Art programme, and to their engagement with our students and with Winnipeg’s vibrant and diverse arts community at large.”
WAG curators helped initiate the UWinnipeg art history program over 45 years ago. This relationship continues to thrive with WAG curators now teaching as part of the University’s Masters degree in the Curatorial Studies program. The two institutions share expertise, collections, and a strong commitment to mentoring students and the downtown arts community.
The search committee for the Chair in the History of Indigenous Arts of North America will begin reviewing applications on May 15, 2015. The deadline for receipt of completed applications and references is May 30, 2015. The search will continue until the position is filled.
For more information, visit wag.ca and uwinnipeg.ca. For the latest updates, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
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For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact:
Catherine Maksymiuk
Manager, Media & Marketing
Winnipeg Art Gallery
204.789.1767
Media-Manager@wag.ca
Megan Benedictson
Communications Officer
The University of Winnipeg
204.988.7129
me.benedictson@uwinnipeg.ca
The Winnipeg Art Gallery is a cultural advocate – a lens and forum – helping people see and experience more through art. Playing a vital role in the community, engaging and enriching people of all ages and backgrounds through art and culture, the Winnipeg Art Gallery thrives as a creative, innovative, and accessible place for learning, discovery and inspiration.
UWinnipeg is noted for academic excellence, Indigenous scholarship, environmental commitment, small class sizes and campus diversity. UWinnipeg is committed to improving access to post-secondary education for all individuals, especially those from non-traditional communities. Find out more at uwinnipeg.ca. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
