Glum Tortoise, Painting Assistant

Glum Tortoise is a young studio that has gained a lot of exposure in the past seven years. Currently represented by prominent galleries internationally.

The artist works predominantly with painting and has had an exciting venture into her career since 2017 including seven solo shows, a multitude of press, upcoming solo shows and the opportunity to share her practice through various media.  

We are seeking to appoint a Painting Assistant to work part time between Monday and Sunday in our studio based in South London. The role requires flexibility and might include a degree of travel. The successful candidate should have the ability to safeguard and maintain confidentiality in all aspects of work, and respect the privacy of the artist and individuals involved. 

Main Purpose of the Job: 

The painting assistant role assists the artist and other members of the team with making it possible for the artist to create paintings. They are expected to be present whilst the artist works. General tasks include mixing colours and meeting the artist’s needs. The scope of the role includes communicating the ordering of materials and ensuring tools such as brushes are in pristine condition and ready to use. The painting assistant is attentive and expected to contribute ideas and critiques as well as conduct research on behalf of the studio.  

Main responsibilities:  

  • Handle paintings and stretching canvases, to the artist’s standard 

  • Care for and condition all brushes  

  • Mixing colours, in oil and acrylic 

  • Carrying and rotating paintings around the space  

  • Research books specific to the artist’s practice  

  • Maintain professionalism in order to allow the artist to focus on the painting at hand 

  • Possess exceptional discretion and understand the need to handle sensitive information securely and responsibly  

  • Assist with cleaning up during and after painting session 

  • Assist with a weekly stock check of materials and maintain a generous level of supplies, for the studio’s inventory  

  • Communicate with the studio’s head technician and operations manager about orders 

  • Have a knowledge of fine art materials in a broad context beyond the medium of painting  

Skills required: 

  • Have a strong work ethic and the ability to multitask with speed and efficiency 

  • Excellent communication skills 

  • Be flexible with their schedule 

  • Be an enthusiastic and passionate member of the team 

  • Punctual and have great organisational skills, with excellent attention to detail 

  • Carry out any other duties that are within the scope of the role as requested by the artist 

  • Ability to show initiative in further developing the studio environment and processes in a way that supports the artist 

💡To apply for this role, please send a CV and cover letter to glumtortoisestudio@gmail.com

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