Anthro Socal

Job Description

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.