Indigenous Initiatives Specialist - Walker Art Center

The Walker Art Center empowers people to experience the transformative possibilities of the art and ideas of our time and to imagine the world in new ways. In our over 125-year history, we have become one of the most celebrated art museums in the country and we are known for our innovative presentations and acclaimed collections of contemporary art across the spectrum of the visual, performing, and media arts.

This role is intended to support programming and deepen engagement with Indigenous and tribal communities across Minnesota as part of the planning and preparation for two major exhibitions by Twin Cities- based artists Dyani White Hawk (Sičangu Lakota) and Rosy Simas (enrolled member of the Seneca Nation). 

The Indigenous Initiatives Specialist will be a liaison, their work will help shape internal and external communications between Walker Art Center staff, external partners and stakeholders, the artists’ studios, programmers and the public. This position will collaborate with Walker staff and the artists to curate public programming and community engagement activities. The candidate will bring a working knowledge of event production and planning, as well as demonstrated experience working in/with Indigenous communities. 

This position reports to the Associate Director of Public & Community Engagement within the Public Engagement, Learning and Impact department at the Walker Art Center. The work of this position centers community, hospitality and belonging – supporting/aligning with the Walker’s strategic planning goals in working more closely and consistently with and within Indigenous communities in the Twin Cities and beyond. The PELI team places a focus on hospitality, centering community, and creating a welcoming environment where a sense of belonging is prioritized.  

WHAT YOU GET TO DO 

Community Engagement  

• Deepen existing relationships with Native Communities  
• Assist in developing and measuring outreach and connection 
• Participate in the collection of data, story collection and assessing outcomes  
• Co-develop and coordinate community engagement activities including lectures, workshops, and other programs in conjunction with Dyani Whitehawk & Rosy Simas’ exhibitions. 
• Center and foster partnership with Twin Cities organizations, particularly those focused on Indigenous communities.  
• Share information across the organization and collaborate with colleagues in a manner that supports initiatives and practices that welcome Indigenous community members 
• Assist with community outreach and coordinate community group participation and Indigenous advisory groups for a range of programs and initiatives 
• Advise on cultural protocols for ceremony, welcoming, and recognition. 
• Stay informed about other relevant programs locally, nationally and internationally 

Events Support & Program Management 

• Assist with the coordination of public engagement events and programs  
• Identify key partners in hospitality and contracted work 
• Produce event-related documents (run of show documents, event maps, contracts) 
• Procuring and preparing supplies 
• Work with Marketing, Communications, and Content Departments to provide information for advertisements, press coverage, web content, and other promotional materials in a timely manner 
• Liaison with Visitor Experience team to plan and provide necessary information 
• Assist, as needed, with coordination and hosting for artist/curator visits. 
• Conduct general research on artists and other program participants, as assigned. 

Exhibition Support 

• Provide general assistance, as needed, to curators in the planning and organization of exhibitions and other programs 
• Work closely with artists, their studios, and Walker staff on curating and implementing public programming and engagement activities and coordinating those plans between departments 
• Participate in, and occasionally lead tours, talks, tour guide training and other presentations related to exhibition and programs 

WHAT WE NEED IN YOU 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in art, art history, museum studies, Indigenous studies or a related field
• Minimum of three years of experience planning, coordinating, and community-building, with Indigenous communities strongly preferred
• Deep knowledge and intimate cultural contextualization of the indigenous experience
• Ability to work in creative environments, including artist studios. Experience with and knowledge of the arts & community landscape in Minnesota 
• Detail-oriented, self-starter with strong organizational skills, project management, and program coordination skills.
• Comfortable working both in a team capacity and autonomously 
• A commitment to equity as an institutional goal, and comfort with inclusive and accessible language.
• Proactive with an ability to problem solve and adapt to a range of situations. Flexibility in meeting shifting demands and priorities with proven ability to meet multiple deadlines 
• Strong interpersonal skills and a willingness to be part of a team and work across multiple departments.
• Ability to work some weekends and evenings 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS   

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk using a computer.
• Prolonged periods staring at screens

JOB SPECIFICATIONS This position is considered part-time (0.4 FTE Assignment), non-exempt. As a non-exempt position, it is eligible for overtime pay. The minimum compensation for this role is $26.00 hourly, and is eligible for additional compensatory consideration in lieu of benefits. 

This is a 2 year commitment, starting Sept 2024.

This is a hybrid role that will be based both on site at the Walker Art Center and out in community.

This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.

All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Walker’s DEI commitment The Walker is committed to being an employer with a staff who, at all job levels, reflects the rich diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring inclusion and equity in all our employment practices. We deeply value and welcome all the unique lived experiences in our applicants and encourage anyone meeting the minimum requirements to apply.

Recruitment Timeline All positions are open until filled.