About Platform BK

Platform BK is an association of artists, designers, curators, writers, and producers working in the visual arts. Platform BK investigates the role of art in society and campaigns for a better art policy. We work for a better appreciation of the visual arts and a stronger position for everyone working within the field. Platform BK’s mission is to promote solidarity within and with the arts. We do this by researching current themes relevant to the arts field and putting them on the agenda of art institutions, politicians, and the media. Thanks to our direct relationship with the arts field and a growing membership, we know what is happening and can take an independent position within the sector. As an active think tank, Platform BK is a catalyst for essential developments in the arts field and a link between interest groups and politics, in the media and society, independent of establishment or economic interests.

Background

Platform BK came into being in 2011 in response to cultural cutbacks and initially focused on elevating the voices of affected artists, curators, and producers themselves, as well as their representation in politics and policymaking. Based on research, we brought out a genuine picture of pluralistic and precarious contemporary art practices, in the media we offered retorts to inaccuracies and false information.

The interests of artists and cultural workers are currently represented by several parties (including Kunsten ’92, Kunstenbond, Creatieve Coalitie, Platform ACCT, Pictoright, De Zaak Nu), often with strong legal, labor market, fiscal, or lobbying expertise. Platform BK cooperates closely with these organizations and supplements the expertise from the perspective and practices of our members, mostly visual artists. In these collaborations, we can put topics on the agenda that are part of the practice of artists and curators and bring in perspectives from makers that otherwise remain underexposed. In this endeavor, we embrace diversity in all forms so that the voices of all artists can be heard within the organization and our activities. In this way, we strengthen each other and form a joint point of contact and consultation partner for various organizations including BKNL and the Ministry of Culture.

Above all, Platform BK has a function as an active think tank: reflecting on the role of art in society, the changes which affect that dynamic and outlining possible future scenarios based on solidarity. In an increasingly polarized society, our focus is on the political role and potential of art and its future.

Future scenarios

Platform BK has existed for over 10 years. During this time, much work has been done on the artist fee guideline, the Fair Practice Code, studio policy (Geen Stad Zonder Kunst), social safety within the arts, the growing influence of patronage, the precarious position of alumni. This work has been patiently and persistently propagated within policy structures and in practice. It is expected from the new coreteam to further develop the function of active think tank with actions and activities in which some of these dossiers are continued and complemented with new topics of interest to our constituencies.

The vacancy

We are looking for a duo or one person for this vacancy with experience and a network in the visual arts. For a period of 2 to 3 years, the person or duo will take on the leadership of the platform and dare to give it direction. Work takes place in consultation with the board through a monthly soundboarding meeting, board meetings every quarter and annual brainstorming sessions for research and idea development. The work is mainly done in Amsterdam, where Platform BK’s office is located, but activities take place throughout the Netherlands.

We are looking for a coreteam that is able to set the agenda and respond to current affairs, in which the mission and vision of Platform BK is leading. You research current themes and actively draw attention to them through debates, texts or other forms of publication or actions. You formulate plans and implement them practically, working on a project basis with volunteers and/or interns (for a fee). You maintain and expand the network and seek cooperation with other parties to achieve the objectives of Platform BK. You continue the participation of Platform BK in BKNL and other relevant (international) meetings. You promote the vision of Platform BK through various communication channels including our website, newsletter and social media channels and actively seek publicity. You are in contact with members and seek collaborations. You do the financial administration and process the member administration.

It is possible to apply as a duo or as an individual. In the case of a duo, during the selection process equal cooperation, in which  the synergy, complementary qualities, and the ability to support each other will be taken into account. Due to many inter-organizational meeting structures that Platform BK is part of, there is a preference that the candidates speak Dutch.

Profile

– Activist and idealistic with a sense of diplomacy

– Experience and network in the visual arts world and solid knowledge of its workings

– Experience in presenting before an audience, politics, and other stakeholders

– Proven ability to conduct research and write a range of texts

– High-level command of Dutch and English in speaking and writing

– Experience with project organization and budgeting

– An independent position in the visual arts, with preference for an artist, designer, or curator

– Experience with websites, digital newsletters, and social media

You can apply until 22 December 2024, 23:59 by sending CV and cover letter to: Esmee Schoutens, secretary, esmee[at]platformbk.nl. Please indicate in your cover letter what issues you would like to continue working on and what issues you would like to develop and in what way.

Our team consists of people with different backgrounds. Together we ensure that Platform BK knows what is going on and what is needed. The organization embraces diversity and actively combats racism, sexism, and every other form of discrimination within the arts field. Anyone who thinks they can contribute to this is invited to respond.

For information, please contact:
Joram Kraaijeveld, chair of the board, joram[at]platformbk.nl

The first round of interviews will take place from 13–15 January 2025.