Organizer Information
Founded in 1984, Dortmunder Kunstverein is a prominent contemporary art institution in North Rhine–Westphalia (NRW), Germany. It is known as an influential platform for the production and presentation of innovative artistic concepts. Through approximately four solo and group exhibitions per year, combined with an active public program of performances, guided tours, artist talks, lectures, and publications, the Kunstverein plays a crucial role in shaping contemporary artistic discourse. The institution emphasizes experimentation, international networking, and critical engagement, offering artists opportunities to develop and present new work while fostering discussion on relevant artistic and cultural themes.
Title & Description
Artistic Director (Künstlerische Leitung) – Full Time (40 hours)
The Dortmunder Kunstverein is seeking a visionary, communicative, and responsible Artistic Director to lead the institution starting 1 March 2026. The role includes shaping and implementing an innovative exhibition program that enhances both national and international visibility. The Artistic Director will be responsible for curatorial leadership, institutional representation, team collaboration, and strategic development. The position requires a strong understanding of contemporary art, experience in exhibition organization, fundraising, and cultivating partnerships with cultural actors across the region and beyond.
Role Overview
- Position: Artistic Director (m/w/d)
- Contract Type: Full-time employment (40 hours/week)
- Starting Date: 1 March 2026
- Reporting to: The Board of the Kunstverein
- Salary: Not specified (applicants must include salary expectations in the motivation letter)
Position & Tasks
- Conceptualisation and execution of the annual exhibition program
- Development and coordination of accompanying mediation and public programs
- Creation, editorial planning, and supervision of publications
- Active networking with regional, national, and international partners
- Close collaboration with the Board
- Management of the Kunstverein office and full budget responsibility
- Acquisition, administration, and reporting of funding and sponsorships
- Press, public relations, and communication management
- Member support, community building, and membership growth
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Curatorial Practice
- Contemporary Art
- Exhibition Management
- Cultural Programming
- Art Institutions / Non-profit Arts Sector
Eligibility
- A completed university degree in Art History, Cultural Studies, Curatorial Studies, or equivalent
- Comprehensive knowledge of contemporary art and the national/international art sector
- Several years of relevant professional experience in contemporary art institutions and exhibition management
- Proven success in fundraising, sponsorship acquisition, and managing third-party funding
- Strong communication, leadership, and negotiation skills
- Ability to work evenings and weekends during events
- Excellent command of German and English (verhandlungssicher)
This is a professional employment opportunity, primarily for individuals eligible to work in Germany.
Program Benefits
- Opportunity to significantly shape the future artistic profile of a respected contemporary art institution
- Creative autonomy to strengthen the Kunstverein’s international visibility
- Work in a small, collaborative team
- Deutschlandticket included
- 28 days of paid annual leave
- Opportunities to contribute prominently to Dortmund’s cultural identity
Application Fee
No Entry fee
Application Requirements
Submit one combined PDF file (max. 2 MB) containing:
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages), including salary expectations
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 5 pages)
How to Apply?
Send your application via email to: m.edelhoff@dortmunder-kunstverein.de
Contact person: Marion Edelhoff, Chairwoman
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 7 December 2025
- Start Date: 1 March 2026
Location
Dortmund, Germany
Additional Details
- Questions can be sent directly to Marion Edelhoff
- Applications exceeding the PDF size or page limits may not be considered
- The institution is seeking someone who can ensure international visibility and strategic development of the Kunstverein’s artistic profile.
