Studio Manager

Mimili Maku Arts is hiring a Studio Manager to oversee studio operations, support artists, and manage projects in a dynamic remote arts community.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a leading First Nations art centre and be part of a culturally rich and rewarding environment. If you are a dedicated arts professional ready to take on a leadership role in an impactful and inspiring setting, we encourage you to apply!

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About the Organisation

Mimili Maku Arts is a thriving contemporary art studio and cultural institution owned and governed by a board of Anangu directors. Located in Mimili Community on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in remote South Australia, the organisation fosters creativity across painting, photography, publishing, new media, and sculpture.  

Renowned for producing experimental, culturally potent artworks, Mimili Maku artists engage with international contemporary art markets, and their works are recognised through prestigious art prizes, institutional commissions, and global acquisitions.  

With a strong commitment to on-country artmaking, Mimili Maku Arts integrates bush camps, artist residencies, and workshops, reimagining contemporary art froms in relation to Country, language and culture.  

• Our values include:  
  • Truth-telling through art as a means of cultural resistance.  
  • Ngapartji-Ngapartji (learning from each other) to foster safe and sustainable employment pathways for Anangu artists.
  • Creative access to honour contemporary Anangu culture and nurture storytelling and mark-making traditions.
  • Sustainability to ensure a thriving future for artists and their community.
  • Alpiri Kuwari (Addressing the Now) through a cultural collection to safeguard significant works for future generations.  

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About the Role 

The Studio Manager will join an existing and experienced team with strong community and industry relationships. They will work alongside the Art Centre Manager and artists in running a professional art studio. They will oversee all back-of-house operations, including art production, staff rostering, and project management. This role requires a motivated leader with a strong background in studio arts and administration who can balance cultural sensitivity with high-level professional practice.  

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Core Responsibilities  

• 1. Leadership
  • Oversee a team of five permanent Anangu arts workers, FIFO studio assistants, and approximately 20 member artists.
  • Foster a safe, supportive work environment, encouraging professional development.
  • Ensure Work Health and Safety (WHS) compliance.

• 2. Studio Arts Practice
  • Provide technical support for art fabrication (painting, screen-printing, photography, sculpture).
  • Oversee art supply preparation and studio maintenance.  
  • Assist with artistic development and major artwork production.  
  • Photograph and catalogue artworks.  
  • Maintain an overview of exhibition commitments and stock for retail outlets.  

• 3. Project Management, Partnerships & Engagement
  • Oversee project timelines and ensure alignment with strategic goals.  
  • Coordinate annual bush painting camps and community workshops.  
  • Assist in the development of marketing materials (photography, video content for social media).
  • Maintain and develop relationships with cultural institutions, galleries, art collectors, and arts professionals.  
  • Respect and engage with traditional lore and community governance structures.  

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Selection Criteria  

• Essential
  • Degree qualification in Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Arts Administration, or equivalent industry experience.
  • Management or supervisory experience.  
  • Experience in sales, marketing, and exhibition coordination.
  • Ability to live and work in a remote cross-cultural environment, navigating challenges with cultural sensitivity.  
  • Strong written, oral communication, and IT skills, including basic Photoshop and Illustrator knowledge.  
  • Current driver’s licence and ability to operate a manual 4WD in remote areas.
  • Understanding of the importance of Indigenous language and cultural traditions. 
• Desirable
  • Experience in remote art centre work or working with First Nations artists.  
  • Knowledge of Australian and international art markets.  
  • Ability to critically assess art and nurture emerging talent.  
  • Experience with Adobe Suite and studio support for professional artists.  

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Salary & Benefits  

• Base Salary: $65,000 – $78,000 (including super) depending on experience.
• Total Package Value: Approx. $110,000, including:
  • Subsidised fully furnished accommodation ($26,000/year).
  • Annual travel assistance ($1,000 after 12 months).
  • Relocation allowance ($1,000 for a single, $1,500 for a couple).  
  • Superannuation at 11.5%.  
  • Time Off in Lieu (up to 20 days per year).  
  • Six weeks annual leave.  
  • Professional development support.  
  • Mental health supervision (10 free sessions per year).  
  • Access to a work vehicle for job duties.  

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Additional Requirements  

• This role involves manual handling, including packing and freighting artworks.  
• Work in outdoor conditions on-country will be required.  

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How to Apply

Request the full role description and prospectus from jobs@mimilimaku.com