Art Show Staff

Job Title

Art Show Staff

Division

Business

Department

Art Show

Reports to

Art Show Manager

Position Type

Unpaid Volunteer

Location

Expected to be on-site during convention dates, may include the day before and the day after for setup and teardown.

About Anthro SoCal

Anthro SoCal is a community-driven convention celebrating furry fandom through art, performance, gaming, and social connection. Our success depends on the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteer team. Anthro SoCal was formally known as Anthro SoCal in 2026-2027.

Position Overview

The Art Show Staff member plays a vital role in showcasing, protecting, and facilitating the sale of community artwork within the convention's central gallery. Operating at the staff level, you are responsible for the smooth daily operation of the space–from assembling display grids during setup to guiding artists and attendees through check-in, managing secure bag storage, and conducting age verification for restricted areas. Because art show procedures can feel intimidating to newcomers, you will serve as a patient, encouraging guide for first-time bidders and emerging creators alike. If you are a friendly, detail-oriented communicator who wants to help artists thrive, this role is a perfect match.

Time Commitment

Year-round

None

As convention approaches

Attend online staff meetings and trainings when requested

Convention weekend

On-site presence is required with flexible hours. Must plan to work the minimum volunteer hour requirement posted on the website

Pre and post-convention

On-site presence may be required to assist with setup and teardown activities the day before and the day after the event

Key Responsibilities

Your duties will focus on gallery setup, artist and bidder support, access control, and customer service

Gallery Setup & Teardown

Assist with the physical preparation of the Art Show space before opening. This includes assembling display grid walls, hanging lights, setting up bid sheets, and safely packing equipment away after the convention closes

Artist & Bidder Check-In

Welcome artists and attendees to the space, managing the check-in process, verifying paperwork, and logging artwork entries and bidder registration accounts

Bag Check Station Management

Staff and monitor the Art Show bag check area, systematically tagging, storing, and returning attendee belongings

AD Section Age Verification

Staff the entrance of the After Dark (18+) art section, conducting age verification checks to prevent underage access

Attendee & Artist Engagement

Actively converse with gallery visitors, patiently answer questions about bidding rules or artist check-ins, and provide general directions with a warm, welcoming attitude

Gallery Monitoring & Support

Keep a watchful eye on the floor to prevent accidental damage to display pieces and assist fellow team members as needed to keep the gallery running smoothly

Qualifications

Required

Customer Service & Patience

Excellent communication skills paired with deep patience and empathy for guiding individuals who have never submitted art or placed an art show bid before

Decorum & Engagement

A genuine willingness to interact with attendees, maintain high standards of hospitality, and serve as an approachable representative of Anthro SoCal

Attention to Detail

High accuracy and reliability when checking IDs, matching bag check tags, and processing artist documentation

Physical

Ability to stand for extended periods, walk the gallery floor, and assist with light physical labor during setup and breakdown in an active convention environment

Preferred

Gallery or Art Background

Familiarity with community art, visual display techniques, or basic art gallery operations

Customer Service or Retail Experience

Previous experience in front-desk reception, coat/bag check stations, ID checking, or retail operations

De-escalation Skills

The ability to calmly and politely handle policy enforcement, such as explaining photo restrictions or managing entry requirements at the 18+ section

What We Offer

While this is an unpaid volunteer position, we provide

Free convention membership and staff perks

Staff hospitality (meals/snacks during your shifts at-con)

Exclusive staff events and social opportunities

Recognition in convention materials

Experience in event management and team leadership

A supportive, creative community environment

References and recommendation letters upon request

Anthro SoCal is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, experiences, and skill levels. All volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.