The Contemporary Austin
Rob Murphy has a diverse work experience in arts management and operations. Rob is currently serving as the Director of Operations at The Contemporary Austin, where they focus on creating operational efficiencies and facilitating interdepartmental collaboration. Prior to this, they worked as the Director of Operations at Vault Fine Art Services and as a Warehouse Manager at RED HOOK CRATING LLC. Rob also has experience as an International Installation & Project Manager at Williams&Hill, an Art Handler at UOVO, a Registrar | Art Handler at Mother's Tankstation, and an Assistant Curator at Temple Bar Gallery + Studios.
Rob Murphy obtained their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Honours degree in Visual Arts Practice from Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology, completing their studies from 2007 to 2011. Rob later pursued a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Art in the Contemporary World, specializing in Contemporary Theory, Sculpture, and Multimedia from the National College of Art & Design from 2011 to 2013. In addition to their academic qualifications, Rob also holds several certifications such as the Facility Security Coordinator (FSC) from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, obtained in September 2020, and the USA Hockey Official certification from USA Hockey, obtained in September 2019. Rob also has certifications as a Fire Guard for Impairment (Citywide) from the New York City Fire Department and as a Forklift Operator (OSHA certified) from the U.S. Department of Labor, although the specific dates of obtaining these certifications are not provided.
The Contemporary Austin
Our Mission We invite you to discover contemporary art in settings that provoke thought and joy. Our programs join art with place in a pursuit of a deeper experience, a bigger conversation, and a closer community. Our Vision We believe in the capacity of art to transform lives. We dream of a future where more eyes, ears, hearts and minds are opened by contemporary art in all of its forms. Our Values Extending the Welcome – We want every person to feel like they belong here. Our invitation is completely open and inclusive. Always Caring - We know that details matter. We care deeply about the quality of our work and about the experiences of our guests, the artists we collaborate with, our staff, and all those we have yet to meet. Socially Mindful - We believe that contemporary art is a way for people to connect their personal experiences with the broader social and cultural dialogues of our place and time. Staying Curious - We observe closely, listen intently, and inquire sincerely because we have a boundless fascination with people, art and ideas. Making Progress - We always want to be better—to inspire more deeply, to engage more openly, and to serve more joyfully. We are mindful of feedback and committed to ongoing reflection and iteration. Being Here - A place can transform your experience of art, and art can transform your experience of a place. We activate our downtown exhibition space and our lakeside sculpture park in imaginative ways to serve Austin. Trying New Things - We believe in the importance of experimentation, play, and the surprise that often results from trying something new. We know that progress comes through both bravery and vulnerability.