Director of Programs and Exhibitions

Association for Visual Arts (AVA) | Chattanooga, TN
Full-Time | Exempt | $40,000 annually | Benefits eligible
Application deadline: August 31, 2026

About AVA

The Association for Visual Arts is Chattanooga's hub for visual art, located on Frazier Ave. Through exhibitions, professional development programming, and community events, AVA supports working artists and connects them with audiences across the region.

AVA's mission is to strengthen and promote the artistic ecosystem of Chattanooga's visual artists, art enthusiasts, and arts-based institutions.

Position Summary

AVA is seeking a Director of Programs and Exhibitions to lead our galleries and shape the artist-facing programming that supports Chattanooga's creative community. This role combines curatorial and exhibition management with oversight of our education and professional development programs. It is a broad, high-impact position suited to someone who can move comfortably between gallery walls and classroom-style facilitation.

Key Responsibilities

Curatorial and Exhibition Management

  • Curate and manage AVA's gallery spaces, including exhibition scheduling, installation, deinstallation, and presentation standards

  • Research and select artists in alignment with AVA's mission

  • Write curatorial statements and interpretive materials

  • Coordinate artwork logistics, shipping, and condition reporting

Artist and Juror Relations

  • Serve as the primary liaison between artists, jurors, and AVA

  • Manage artist agreements, consignment terms, and exhibition logistics

  • Identify and manage jurors as needed, including supporting 4 Bridges

Education and Program Oversight

  • Oversee Propeller, AVA's career readiness and professional development program for artists

  • Oversee Anchor, a six-week cohort program helping artists build sustainable visibility and communication systems

  • Lead Critique Night, a bi-monthly recurring program offering artists structured peer feedback

  • Coordinate general workshops

  • Develop educational programming tied to exhibitions

Marketing and Communications

  • Write and manage promotional material for exhibitions and programs

  • Oversee gallery social media, newsletter, and mailing list content

  • Maintain a consistent voice across all AVA communications

Sales and Operations

  • Oversee gallery sales, collector relationships, and pricing structures

  • Maintain inventory records, sales documentation, and artist payment processes

Budgeting and Administration

  • Manage the gallery and program budgets

  • Support fundraising, sponsorships, and grant-related reporting as needed

  • Maintain scheduling systems, including facility rentals such as the photo studio

Facilities and Stewardship

  • Oversee the care, safety, and functionality of gallery spaces

  • Monitor environmental conditions for artwork safety

Strategic Direction

  • Shape the long-term vision and identity of AVA's gallery and education programming

  • Evaluate program success and adjust based on community needs

  • Build partnerships that support AVA's growth

Qualifications

  • Experience in gallery management, curatorial work, or a related visual arts field

  • Experience in education, facilitation, or program coordination, ideally with adult or artist-focused audiences

  • Experience leading critique groups or peer feedback sessions

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Ability to manage multiple programs and priorities independently

  • Comfort working with artists, board members, funders, and the public

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Fine Arts recommended

To Apply

Please send a resume and cover letter to laura@avarts.org with "Director of Programs and Exhibitions" in the subject line.

AVA is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.