I started my federal voluntary service at Kultur Aktiv in mid-August 2017. Fresh out of school, it quickly became clear that I would be working very independently here. The principle here was: learning by doing!
After a period of settling in, it was soon clear what tasks I would be performing during the 12-month service. As a person interested in art and photography, I was looking forward to hanging the gallery all year round together with Kultur Aktiv’s curator Holger Wendland. But not only hanging the next exhibition was part of the gallery planning, but also preparing openings. Announcing the exhibition opening on various internet platforms was also an important stage. But the most exciting part was the whole process: announcing the opening, hanging the paintings, the big drinks and snack shopping before the opening and of course the opening itself. Being involved in each part of the process not only enhanced my creativity, but also gave me experience in dealing with different personalities.
One thing I can say: it is a great feeling to see that visitors to the exhibition are happy about what you have prepared partly on your own.
photo © Iaroslav Pobezhan
Of course, I also had the opportunity to work on many other projects. Besides many different events, I was also able to prepare an exhibition for the BRN – just my thing!
But sometimes, as with almost any planning, obstacles get in the way – and you have to act fast. As long as you overcome hurdles in the planning and preparation phase, the process can continue to go well. But you also have to learn that first – as already said: learning by doing!