Who writes job descriptions? Is it the museum's board, each of its members adding their wishes to the list? Maybe that's what happened at Portikus in Frankfurt where you can apply for a job as a curator. I applaud those who still want to apply after reading the job advert.
The list of demands is very long: Portikus asks you to be a curator, an administrator, a manager, a teacher, a mentor, a fundraiser and a few more things, while also (and this is mentioned twice) an ambassador. You might guess what that means in Germany. Is the job then paid like an ambassador? I didn't check "EG 13 TV-Hessen" but I'm sure that it won't be enough.
Obviously, Portikus asks for a "dynamic" person, whose energy then will be happily sucked out for a contract of only three years. Where are the ethics? They are to be found in the flexible working hours and the attention to diversity - some dry formulations copy-pasted from the regulations it has to adhere to.
Instead, Portikus emphasises that strong connections to "artists, sponsors and colleagues from institutions in and outside Europe, North-America and beyond" are necessary. Apologies to the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, Asia and everywhere else that is positioned "beyond" according to Portikus. No need to apply for this job.
Notice also the "colleagues from institutions"-part. Beware of freelancers! Connections to them are not necessary because they won't get anything to do. Jobs in institutions are for those who already work in institutions. Us know us. This is understandable because freelancers don't know how to run a business and work together with others.
If you still want to apply, you will need to send along three reference letters, one for each year of your employment, I'm guessing. Also, Portikus won't pay for travel and accommodation if you are invited for the job interview. Sorry!
Portikus is part of a famous art school which makes this job add even more ridiculous and sad. Is this how it creates the future for its art students?
