Context

In 2030, Belgium will have the opportunity to nominate a European Capital of Culture once again. Ghent is one of six Belgian cities vying for the title, alongside Bruges, Brussels-Molenbeek, Kortrijk, Leuven, and Namur. The selection for the final round will take place at the end of October 2024. You can find the concept note of the first bidbook here.
In the next phase, with the second bidbook to be submitted in July 2025, the focus will be on developing an artistic program that places Ghent at the heart of Europe. To make this possible, we are expanding our artistic team and looking for two creative, well-connected, and collaborative individuals. Together, we will work on an innovative cultural program that puts Ghent on the map!
You can find the full job description here. In the event that we do not advance to the second round, we will use the period from early November to the end of December 2024 to consolidate and sustain the work we have done so far.
 

What will you do?

  • You will develop and guide the artistic program through “toopen” and open calls, inspiring and supporting participants in bringing their artistic ideas to life. 
  • You will coördinate and document collaboration and experimentation processes within the “toopen,” continuously evaluating and adjusting them.
  • You will connect different groups and ensure a good flow of information between all involved, from participants to the broader Ghent2030 team.
  • You will maintain international contacts and establish links with other European and regional initiatives, such as in the reference regions of Ghent and Zeeland.
  • You will foster inclusive collaboration between diverse parties and ensure that underrepresented voices are actively involved.

(Toopen are the spaces where the final artistic program is developed. They are cross-sectoral in composition, working autonomously within the framework of the established values, artistic guidelines, and learning principles.)
 

Who are you? 

  • You see artists as drivers of societal change and place them at the heart of this process.
  • You have an artistic vision and experience programming projects in the arts and culture sector.
  • You have a broad network in Ghent, the reference region of Ghent-Zeeland, and/or Europe, and you know how to connect different stakeholders.
  • You are a natural team player who inspires, motivates, and connects others.
  • Experimenting and innovating are second nature to you; you are unafraid to try new approaches and adjust them as needed.
  • You are proactive and entrepreneurial, with a keen eye for long-term goals.
  • You create an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and responsible.
  • You are flexible and adapt to new developments and changes within the project.
  • You endorse and embody the 12 values of Ghent2030 in everything you do.

What do we offer?

  • A part-time fixed-term contract from 01/11 to 20/12/2024 and from 01/01 to 30/06/2025, in case we proceed to the next round (we will know on 24/10/24). Remuneration according to the A-scale, CAO Performing Arts and Music. (working hours and status to be discussed)
  • The chance to play a key role in the unique Ghent2030 project, which will position Ghent as an innovative city of arts and culture.
  • A dynamic working environment where you will collaborate with local and international partners.
  • The opportunity to make a real impact on Ghent and beyond, contributing to a cultural transition.

Interested? 

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and want to be part of the artistic team leading Ghent towards 2030? Send your motivation letter and CV by Saturday, October 19 2024, to info@gentskunstenoverleg.be. The interviews will take place during the week of 28/10/2024.

Together, we are building the future of Ghent as the European Capital of Culture!