Open call: Basis Frankfurt 2024 curatorial residency

The aim of the programme is to introduce new international perspectives to the local art community enhancing curatorial research, exchange and discourse in Frankfurt.

Speaking to Music In Africa, the organisers said the call is mainly open for curatorial projects focussed on visual arts. However, there is no limitation and other projects including those from sound artists are also welcome.

Resident curators are provided time and space to develop a curatorial programme here at Basis by researching and connecting with the different artists, who obtain a studio at Basis. The previously prepared abstract concept proposal should be specified into an elaborated exhibition concept. The exhibition will be on view from September until the end of October 2024. The period in between the residency stay and the exhibition time should also be used to further develop and finalise the exhibition.

Studio visits and meetings with professionals in Frankfurt are an important part of the programme. Networking opportunities will be offered. A public lecture or workshop can be held at the residency. The resident will be fully funded by the city of Frankfurt, covering travel expenses and a per diem of €1 000 per month.

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants should be young cultural practitioners and scholars from all around the globe with a pertinent experience in curating exhibitions and/or related projects. There is no specific age limit – the open call is direct to curators in the earlier stages of their career. The application should document a well-founded interest in current debates in arts and culture and a specific interest in the Frankfurt art scene. The applicants should have a good level of spoken and written English (or German). A jury of experts decides the awarding.

Overview

• Young international curators and art practitioners showing a consistent curatorial practice.
• Country of residence predominantly outside Germany.
• Good level of spoken and written English (or German).
• Successful graduates of a university or art academy.
• Genuine interest in the local art scene of Frankfurt.
• Preparation of/research for exhibition during the stay.
• Curating the exhibition at Basis (September until end of October 2024).

Specifications about the exhibition:

• Group exhibition.
• Some of the artists should be based or connected to Frankfurt.
• Young and up-coming artists.
• New productions of works desirable.
• No loans from museums possible.
• Ideally only limited transports outside of the Frankfurt am main area.
• Exhibition budget of around €20 000 – extra budget needs to be applied for conception of an accompanying programme with one to three events (talks, lectures, etc).
• Download floor plan and images here.

Application guidelines

The complete application in English or German should consist of:

• The fully completed application form including an exhibition concept proposal (max. 2 000 characters incl. blanks).
• CV (max. two pages).
• Documentation of previous projects.
• All links and images must be included in the application (one PDF file max. 5MB).
• File name consisting of first name and last name.

The application needs to be submitted digitally as one PDF via email to air@basis-frankfurt.de with the subject line ‘Curator in residence 2024’ before 17 September. All applicants will be notified until 20 October.

“If necessary, we can also assist in obtaining a visa,” the organisers said. “The selected applicant will be hosted in a fully equipped studio apartment at Basis in the heart of Frankfurt. Travel expenses and an additional fee for the exhibition will be covered as well.”

View the original call here.