Also referred to as the ‘theory workshop’, the Rijksakademie holds an extensive library, as well as art collections and archives. The library, in combination with the art collection, primarily functions as a resource. It provides artists (and other users) with the tools to do research and find inspiration in books, films and other material. Besides that, it is also a place where disciplines and people meet, where knowledge is shared and questions are answered. Generating new and accessible knowledge, stories and networks.
Specialist: Marietta Dirker
The programme consists of two parts:
– Learning in the workshops (2 days a week)
– Research (2 days a week)
Learning in the workshop
As a fellow, you will work together with your mentor, the specialist of the theory workshop, (also the librarian) and learn about the content and scope of the theory workshop and how to work with the (technical sides of the) material, the accessibility of the data and the users of the library.
Research plan
You do research on possible ways of activating the material (in the library and collections). For instance, visualising narrative: how objects and books are embedded in stories, can be seen as representatives of time, society, ideas and tradition. This can be thematic, such as on interconnectedness within the institute, the city, certain subjects, ideas or interpretations; and above all sharing these (in- and outside of the Rijksakademie).
The form of the research and output should be focused on creative ways of optimising the existing activities of library and the collections itself. Creating more buzz, stimulating and promoting (different) use of the material, the data and the theory workshop, effectively resulting in an increased dynamic within the workshop. The project requires working with diverse forms of information: books, digital, artworks, archive material and the stories surrounding them (semantic relations, storytelling, narratives).
For this you submit a research plan, in which you suggest an original plan focused on the above described research area.
Who can apply?
Young and mid-career artists or designers with knowledge of and strong interest in special collections and archival practices can apply. You have an independent, curious work attitude. You enjoy working with others and sharing knowledge and can work in an international community.
You are available four days a week during the period, living in The Netherlands at the moment of applying and during the Tech Fellowship year 2025, and registered as self-employed.
What do we offer?
• A trainee/research programme in the workshops
• Personal guidance and coaching by the mentor of the Tech Fellowship Programme
• Possibility to attend workshops, lectures, seminars relevant to the development of the discipline
• Exchange with other institutions/libraries/collections
• Shared workspace/office with the other fellows
• A compensation of € 22.000 for twelve months on an invoicing basis
Individual learning goals and objectives are determined in consultation at the beginning of the programme. The main criteria are the artistic and technical knowledge of the fellow, the submitted plan, the ambition to conduct and document research, to increase one's own knowledge, the desire to contribute to the work of others and the intended added value for the field
Find more information on the library/collection here.
