Independents Biennial 2025 is shaping up to be our most ambitious programme yet, with a bold vision and an exciting lineup of artists, exhibitions, and events. To bring it all to life, we’re looking for enthusiastic Curatorial Assistant Volunteers to join us from March to September 2025.
This role requires flexibility, as exhibitions and installations will take place across various times and locations.
As a Curatorial Assistant Volunteer, you’ll support artists and curators behind the scenes, helping with installations, exhibition maintenance, and logistics. This is a hands-on opportunity to gain experience in curatorial practice, exhibition setup, and working closely with artists.
We welcome applications from anyone interested in supporting the programme.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in a Curatorial Assistant Volunteer role, email us at volunteering@artinliverpool.com, and we’ll be in touch to confirm your participation.
If you’d like to explore a more self-led project or gain experience in production, marketing, volunteer coordination, or working with artists, email patrick@artinliverpool.com with a short proposal outlining your interests.
Deadline to apply: 30th April 2025
Your Role & Responsibilities
As a Curatorial Assistant Volunteer, you may be involved in one or more of the following areas:
- Artist Liaison Assistant – Supporting artists with their logistical needs, coordinating materials, and ensuring smooth communication between artists and the festival team.
- Curatorial Assistant (Materials/Installations) – Assisting with material preparation, handling artworks, setting up exhibitions, and ensuring artworks are displayed according to curatorial guidelines.
- Transport & Setup Assistant – Helping with the transportation of artworks, setting up exhibition spaces, and ensuring installations are completed on time.
- Providing general curatorial support as needed, including exhibition maintenance and troubleshooting display issues.
What You’ll Gain
- Hands-on experience in exhibition planning, installation, and curatorial work.
- A deeper understanding of contemporary art practices and behind-the-scenes operations.
- The opportunity to collaborate with artists, curators, and arts professionals.
- Improved teamwork, problem-solving, and organisational skills.
- Insight into the logistics and practicalities of large-scale arts festivals.
Training & Support
All volunteers will receive a full induction and role-specific training, including:
- Best practices for handling and installing artworks
- Exhibition maintenance and troubleshooting techniques
- General safeguarding and health & safety training
- Personalised training based on your specific responsibilities
Ongoing support and supervision will be provided by senior staff throughout the festival.
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds! The following qualities would be beneficial for this role:
- Enthusiasm for working behind the scenes in an arts environment.
- Interest in contemporary art, exhibition-making, or curatorial work.
- Practical mindset with a willingness to get hands-on with installations.
- Good problem-solving and teamwork skills.
- Ability to follow curatorial guidelines and handle materials responsibly.
- Flexibility to work around exhibition schedules.