Within the framework of ifa’s Research Programme « Culture and Foreign Policy » experts examine current issues related to foreign cultural and educational policy. The ifa (Institute for International Cultural Relations) currently invites to apply for the following project:

Post-colonial curatorial challenges at the interface between ethnological museums and art

Provenance research of ethnological collections in Germany, the presentation of objects acquired under colonial conditions, the Humboldt-Forum, terms in connection with « shared heritage » and the reflection of one’s own position in the dialogue with others stress the numerous curatorial challenges at the interface between ethnological museums and art. This research project shall point out best practices and formulate recommendations for action for curatorial practice.

Against this background, the following questions must be reflected upon: Which epistemologies are created by the organisers of an exhibition? Whose knowledge shall be regarded as valid? Which framing aspects and narratives of colonialism shall be created? What statement does contemporary art make with regard to colonialism? What are the main points of criticism concerning previous exhibition practices? How can multiple perspectives be included in the presentation of the objects? How and for which agents shall accesses to content (and financing) be created?

Format: brief study, internal workshop
Length: 4 months
Start: as soon as possible
Location: flexible
Deadline for applications: 13 November 2016

Please submit your application electronically as one attachment (max. 3 MB) by 13 November 2016 to research(at)ifa.de.

Call for Proposals