Registrar and Preparator

A prominent artist studio is seeking a highly organized, technically skilled, and solutions-oriented Registrar and Preparator to oversee all aspects of artwork logistics, registration, preparation, installation, and physical studio operations.

This hybrid role combines comprehensive registrar responsibilities—including inventory management, shipping coordination, condition reporting, expense tracking, and documentation—with hands-on preparator responsibilities across exhibitions, artwork installation, packing, facilities maintenance, and artwork handling.

The Registrar and Preparator will work closely with studio management, production staff, galleries, museums, fabricators, shippers, and external vendors to ensure artworks and projects are executed to the highest possible standard at every stage of production, storage, transportation, and installation.

The ideal candidate possesses exceptional attention to detail, strong technical and organizational abilities, and a deep commitment to craftsmanship, problem-solving, and operational excellence. They are equally comfortable behind a computer managing logistics and documentation as they are physically installing artworks, preparing walls, packing crates, and maintaining studio spaces.

The studio is a dynamic environment where professional integrity, rigor, accountability, and a commitment to excellence are highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Manage artwork inventory, documentation, and location tracking across all studio sites

• Coordinate local, domestic, and international shipping logistics for artworks, exhibitions, and related materials

• Prepare and maintain condition reports for artworks and production materials

• Inspect artworks and materials during all stages of production, packing, transport, installation, and deinstallation

• Maintain accurate records related to shipping, storage, framing, fabrication, and production

• Track invoices, expenses, and budgets related to shipping, storage, materials, and production logistics

• Order and maintain studio materials, packing supplies, hardware, tools, and equipment

• Coordinate with galleries, museums, registrars, fine art shippers, fabricators, and storage facilities

• Prepare customs documentation, shipping paperwork, and insurance-related materials as necessary

• Maintain organized digital and physical filing systems related to artworks, logistics, and production

• Support inventory audits and ongoing studio archiving initiatives

• Install and deinstall artworks of all mediums, including paintings, sculpture, video, works on paper, and related media

• Execute and oversee artwork packing, crating, and preparation for transportation and storage

• Prepare exhibition spaces, walls, pedestals, hardware, and related installation environments

• Conduct artwork handling with exceptional care and attention to museum and gallery standards

• Coordinate and oversee freelance preparators, installers, and art handlers as required

• Maintain studio organization, cleanliness, and operational readiness across all physical spaces

• Oversee general facilities maintenance and coordinate repairs, vendors, and contractors as necessary

• Conduct site visits and provide on-site installation oversight for exhibitions and projects

• Ensure all installations are executed safely, efficiently, and to the highest aesthetic and technical standards

Skills, Characteristics, and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or equivalent professional experience

• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in art handling, registration, preparation, exhibitions, or related studio/gallery/museum environments

• Demonstrated experience coordinating domestic and international artwork shipping logistics

• Strong understanding of museum, gallery, and fine art handling standards and protocols

• Experience inspecting artworks and materials and generating detailed condition reports

• Exceptional organizational and multitasking skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Meticulous attention to detail and quality control

• Track record of independent problem-solving and solutions-oriented thinking

• Ability to lift, move, pack, and install artworks safely and professionally

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and related organizational platforms

• Valid driver’s license as well as a desire and willingness to travel as necessary

Preferred

• Experience with Artlogic or related inventory management systems

• Experience with woodworking, fabrication, carpentry, or construction-related tools and processes

• Familiarity with international customs procedures and fine art shipping regulations

• Experience working directly with artists, galleries, museums, and institutional partners

• Forklift, scissor lift, or related equipment certifications

• Experience managing or overseeing freelance installation teams

• Knowledge of archival standards and artwork storage best practices

• A “no task too big, no task too small” attitude grounded in professionalism, rigor, and accountability

Who You Are

• You are highly organized, hands-on, and deeply reliable

• You take pride in precision, craftsmanship, and maintaining exceptionally high standards

• You are equally comfortable managing detailed logistics and physically installing artworks

• You notice issues before they become problems and approach challenges with calm, practical solutions

• You thrive in fast-paced environments and can successfully manage multiple priorities simultaneously

• You are proactive, resourceful, and capable of working independently while remaining highly collaborative

• You understand the importance of discretion, professionalism, and accountability within an artist’s studio

• You are comfortable working across many aspects of studio operations—from condition reporting and shipping logistics to wall preparation and facilities maintenance

• You are committed to supporting ambitious artistic production with rigor, care, and attention to detail

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] with 'Registrar and Preparator' in the subject line.