The Associate Specialist (Modern & Contemporary Art) will assist in the curation, research, and execution of Modern and Contemporary Art auctions, including both live and online sales. The role involves managing consignments, producing high-quality cataloguing content, and supporting client relationships. The ideal candidate possesses strong art historical knowledge, commercial acumen, and a keen understanding of the Southeast Asian art market.
KEY JOB FUNCTIONS(Duties include but are not limited to the following):
1. Consignment & Research
- Support the sourcing and evaluation of artworks for sale across live and online auctions.
- Conduct due diligence, provenance checks, and market research to ensure accuracy and integrity of information.
- Assist in the preparation of valuation reports and consignment proposals for clients.
2. Catalogue & Sale Preparation
- Draft clear and engaging catalogue entries, artist biographies, and curatorial notes.
- Coordinate artwork photography, measurements, and data entry into internal systems.
- Liaise with the Marketing and Design teams to ensure timely production of sale catalogues and promotional materials.
3. Client Engagement
- Support Specialists in building and maintaining relationships with collectors, consignors, and institutions.
- Respond to client enquiries regarding artworks, estimates, and bidding processes.
- Assist in the organization of client viewings, previews, and exhibitions.
4. Sale Execution & Post-Sale
- Assist in the smooth running of live and online auctions, including lot order, bidding, and sale monitoring.
- Prepare post-sale reports, buyer invoices, and consignment settlements.
- Provide after-sale client support and follow-up communications.
5. Market Analysis
- Monitor regional and international art trends to identify potential opportunities for consignments.
- Maintain and update artist databases, sales records, and performance analyses.
- Participate in galleries openings / art fairs / museum show to keep up to date to the market
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in Art History, Fine Arts, Arts Management, or related discipline.
- 2-4 years of relevant experience in an auction house, art gallery, or art advisory environment.
- Strong interest and knowledge in Modern & Contemporary art, particularly in Southeast Asia.
- Excellent research, writing, and communication skills in English (Mandarin or another Asian language is advantageous to be able to communicate with clients/artists from Asian countries).
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
- A proactive, collaborative, and professional approach to work.
- Demonstrated ability in appraising property and business-getting.
- Knowledge of E-mail, Spreadsheet, Word Processing and Presentation software (Microsoft Office preferred).
- Ability to learn 33 Auction systems including Box, AuctionFlex, AuctionMobility and website.
- Superior client service skills.
- Demonstrated ability to multi-task and prioritize.
- Strong follow-up skills with attention to detail.
