MAASTRICHT, NETHERLAND.- The Jan van Eyck Academie, international post-academic institute for research and production in the fields of fine art, design and theory, is recruiting a photographer/researcher for its project Citygraphy. 19th and 21st century topographic photography in Maastricht. Citygraphy examines the role of 19th century photography in the consciousness and perception of the European city as a historic focal point – a fulcrum subject to the powers of modernization. Contrasts between urban centres and expanding suburbs, between handicraft and industrial production, between transport by water and over land, between conservation and redevelopment, between restoration as both a form of protection and of rebuilding, between the interests of residents and those of visitors determine the politics of life. What role did the visual image play in all of this, and in particular, what was the role of photography?

The research project Citygraphy. 19th and 21st century topographic photography in Maastricht is a commission for a photographer/researcher. The commission concerns the development of a personal photographic vision of 21st century Maastricht, taking the 19th century city images of Maastricht as a starting point. Candidates are asked to focus on the city of Maastricht. The photographer undertakes research in Maastricht and realises concrete images.

Format - The research project has a six-month trajectory. Various communal working sessions will be organized, the goal being that all concerned (photographer/researcher, artistic coordinator and external experts) will meet, exchange experiences, gain expertise and discuss images that were already realized. The experts involved in these workshops (for instance, archives employees, cultural biographers, etc.) will provide knowledge about Maastricht and about specific issues such as topographic photography, city walls and water in the city. These experts may be asked to give public presentations.

The photo-technical, photo-theoretical, semiotic and cultural-historical knowledge thus developed will form the material the photographer will start working with in order to provide contemporary topographic interpretations of 21st century Maastricht. Alternatively, these contemporary photographs may also raise questions that give direction to the theoretical and cultural-historical research. The research results will be presented at a location yet to be determined.

Application details - The research project is geared towards photographers whose CV show practical experience and who are prepared to commit themselves time and content-wise. The task includes carrying out research activities, accomplishing the photographic commission and participating in workshops.

Research candidates should submit a motivation, CV and documentation relevant to Citygraphy. An individual project description is not required. The research project will start on 1 July 2006 and ends on 31 December 2006. Application deadline is 6 June 2006. More information: http://www.citygraphy.com