Organizer Information
The Dortmunder Kunstverein e.V. is a non-profit contemporary art institution founded in 1984 in Dortmund, Germany, through a civic initiative dedicated to the promotion and mediation of contemporary visual art. Over the past decades, it has developed into a well-established platform for contemporary artistic production and discourse, presenting both national and international artists within a dynamic program of exhibitions, talks, and public events.
As part of the broader network of German Kunstvereine, the institution plays an important role in supporting experimental and emerging contemporary art practices. Its mission is to create a space for critical exchange on artistic, cultural, and societal developments through curated programming and public engagement. The Kunstverein operates as a registered charitable association, guided by a professional curatorial and administrative team and a board of cultural and academic professionals.
Title & Description
Assistenzkurator*in (Curatorial Assistant, Full-Time Position)
The Dortmunder Kunstverein is inviting applications for the position of Assistant Curator (m/f/d) starting 15 July 2026 (or by arrangement). This full-time position is based in Dortmund and requires on-site presence.
The role is designed for individuals seeking to develop a professional career in curatorial practice within a contemporary art institution. The Assistant Curator will actively participate in the development, production, and realization of exhibitions and related public programming.
The position offers hands-on experience across multiple institutional fields, including curatorial development, exhibition production, public programming, communication, and administrative coordination. The selected candidate will contribute to shaping exhibitions and events that engage with contemporary artistic practices and critical cultural discourse.
This is a practice-based curatorial role embedded within a small but internationally connected institution, offering insight into both conceptual and operational aspects of contemporary exhibition-making.
The Role Overview
- Position Title: Assistenzkurator*in (Curatorial Assistant)
- Employment Type: Full-time (40 hours per week)
- Contract Type: Employment position (standard labor contract under German employment framework)
- Start Date: 15 July 2026 (or by arrangement)
- Work Location: On-site in Dortmund, Germany (no remote work option indicated)
- Reporting To: Artistic & Managing Director (Hendrike Nagel) and the curatorial team
- Institution Type: Contemporary art non-profit organization (Kunstverein)
- Working Conditions: Occasional evening and weekend work required for events and public programs
- Professional Environment: Small, collaborative team with international curatorial and artistic networks
- Career Focus: Development of curatorial skills and institutional experience in contemporary art
Position & Tasks
The Assistant Curator will be responsible for a wide range of curatorial, organizational, and administrative tasks, including but not limited to:
- Supporting the conception, planning, and execution of exhibitions
- Assisting in the production and installation of exhibition projects
- Contributing to the development of accompanying public programs and events
- Organizing institutional events, including occasional evening or weekend activities
- Managing office-related administrative tasks, including preparatory bookkeeping
- Assisting in the administration of funding applications and grant-related processes
- Supporting communication activities, including press and public relations work
- Engaging in art mediation and audience engagement activities
- Coordinating and maintaining relationships with artists, members, and visiting guests
- Supporting institutional publications and annual editions (including production assistance)
- Participating in the logistical and conceptual development of exhibitions and programs
- Contributing to internal coordination across departments within the Kunstverein
This position requires a combination of conceptual curatorial thinking and strong organizational capacity, as well as the ability to work collaboratively within a fast-paced institutional environment.
Categories
- Curatorial Practice
- Contemporary Art
- Exhibition Making
- Arts Administration
- Cultural Management
- Visual Arts
- Art Mediation
- Institutional Programming
Eligibility
- Academic background in Cultural Studies, Art History, Fine Arts, Curatorial Studies, or a related field
- Initial professional or internship experience in exhibition-making, cultural institutions, or project management
- Strong knowledge of contemporary art discourse and practices
- Excellent command of German (required) and at least good English skills
- High level of organizational ability and independent working style
- Strong communication skills and social competence
- Intercultural awareness and sensitivity
- Proficiency in standard office software (Microsoft Office or equivalent)
- Motivation to further develop a career in curatorial and institutional practice
The position is primarily aimed at early-career curators or cultural professionals seeking to strengthen their institutional experience.
Program Benefits
While this is a salaried employment position rather than a grant or residency, the role provides significant professional benefits, including:
- Full-time paid employment (40 hours per week)
- Direct collaboration with international artists and curators
- Comprehensive exposure to all institutional departments of a contemporary art organization
- Structured environment for curatorial skill development
- Opportunity to develop an independent curatorial profile within a professional institution
- Integration into a small, collaborative, and motivated team
- 28 days of paid annual leave
- Public transport support via Deutschlandticket
- Access to international museum networks through ICOM membership card
- Long-term career development within the cultural sector
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Cover letter (motivation letter)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic certificates and diplomas
- Relevant professional references or work certificates
- Optional: recommendation letters
Applicants must also indicate their earliest possible starting date.
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted via email to: nagel@dortmunder-kunstverein.de
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 May 2026
- Start Date: 15 July 2026 (or by arrangement)
- Employment Duration: Not specified (full-time ongoing position)
- Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the deadline
Location
Dortmund, Germany (on-site position)
Additional Details
This position involves active participation in both curatorial and operational aspects of a contemporary art institution. Candidates should be prepared for a hybrid role that combines conceptual work with administrative responsibilities. Occasional evening and weekend availability is required due to public programming and exhibition openings.
The Kunstverein emphasizes collaborative work, interdisciplinary exchange, and engagement with international artistic practices. The position is particularly suitable for individuals seeking to build a long-term career in curatorial practice within a European institutional context.