Gallery Technician/Preparator
/Organization:
Bau-Xi Gallery, Vancouver
Deadline:
Until filled
Organization Description:
Bau-Xi Gallery was established in 1965 by Bau-Xi Huang in Vancouver to showcase the many Canadian artists in need of gallery representation on the West Coast. It is the oldest commercial gallery in Vancouver. The gallery has been a member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada since the early 1970s and is a founding member of the South Granville Gallery Association. Today Bau-Xi operates in a purpose built, light-filled building on Vancouver’s exclusive Granville Street.
Website:
Job Description:
The Gallery Technician/Preparator works closely and collaboratively with the Sales Team and Gallery Director, as well as independently. This includes installation and de-installation of exhibitions; packing and crating artwork for international shipments; receiving artwork and supply deliveries; general inventory and gallery maintenance; framing and stretching original artwork; and delivering and installing artwork at both residential and commercial projects within Greater Vancouver.
Responsibilities:
• Perform and assist with the unpacking/packing, logging, preparation, repair, and installation/de-installation of artwork at the gallery.
• Perform delivery and installation and de-installation tasks at project sites throughout Greater Vancouver.
• Transportation of artwork through gallery spaces, hallways and stairwells; includes the safe, secure and efficient loading/unloading of gallery and commercial delivery vehicles.
• Perform plywood crate construction, crate-packing, and basic carpentry assignments using table saws and/or sliding table saws, circular saw, chop saw, angle grinders, and drills.
• Place and adjust lights to properly illuminate exhibitions.
• Perform framing and canvas stretching for original paintings, editioned prints, and photography using best practices and techniques.
• Perform general gallery cleaning and maintenance, including repairing/painting walls, organizing art storage stacks.
Qualifications:
Requirements
• A valid Class 5 driver's license and comfort with operating a commercial Ford Transit van (2024 electric vehicle).
• Experience and familiarity with operating power tools and machinery.
• Comfortable with heights and using a 10 ft ladder.
• Ability to lift 50lbs.
Assets / Qualifications
• Able to work independently or in a team-setting with a high level of attention to detail, and ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of framing, mounting, and stretching artwork including paintings on canvas, etchings, edition prints, photographs, mixed media, and works on panel.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) as well as strong listening skills.
• Strong organisational skills applied before, during, and after execution of tasks with regards to tools, materials, and workspaces.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Professional demeanour when interacting with staff, couriers, and visiting artists; including but not limited to safe/proper dress code.
• Experience working as an art handler, fabricator, or carpenter at other museums, galleries, design/build firms, academic institutions desired but not necessary.
• Working knowledge of best practices and standards in handling artworks (during transportation, unpacking, condition reporting, and hanging) and in installing and de-installing artwork (hanging, anchor types, installation methods, security hardware types, etc.) considered an asset.
• Studio Art or Art History knowledge desired but not necessary.
How to Apply:
Please apply with a resume and cover letter to info@bau-xi.com, subject Line: Gallery Technician & Preparator. Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Remuneration:
$22 - $24/hour based on skills and experience
Contact Name: Riko Nakasone
Contact Email: info@bau-xi.com
Contact Phone: (604) 733-7011
