Volunteer
Inleiding
Apply as a volunteer!
Sonsbeek 2026
2 July – 11 October 2026
Theme: “Memory as Living Action”
Location: Sonsbeek Park and other cultural venues in Arnhem
In the summer and autumn of 2026, Arnhem will come alive again with the thirteenth edition of Sonsbeek. With the theme “Memory as Living Action,” we bring together art, the city, and the public. For this, we need enthusiastic volunteers. Without volunteers, there would be no Sonsbeek 2026. Would you like to be closely involved in the realization of Sonsbeek 2026, get in touch with the curators and artists, and inspire visitors with their stories? You can sign up now! If you have any questions, please contact vrijwilligers@sonsbeek.org
What can you do as a volunteer?
There are several types of volunteer roles. Together, we will look at what suits you best, depending on your interests and availability. Examples include:
– Visitor reception & information
Welcoming visitors, guiding them through the park and venues, answering practical questions.
– Art mediation
Engaging with visitors about the artworks and the theme of Sonsbeek 2026.
– Set-up and take-down & production support
Helping prepare locations, assisting with small logistical tasks, and providing backstage support.
You do not need to be available throughout the entire exhibition period; you are welcome even if you can help occasionally.
Why become a volunteer?
As a volunteer for Sonsbeek 2026, you will:
– become part of the community that supports and advances Sonsbeek;
– meet other volunteers, artists, and cultural professionals through meetings, friendly gatherings, and exclusive sneak previews;
– receive the volunteer newsletter regularly and discover news about Sonsbeek 2026 before the general public;
– actively contribute to a leading international art project in Arnhem and the surrounding area and gain valuable experience in the cultural sector;
– experience Sonsbeek 2026 up close and help make this edition an extraordinary experience rooted in the city, its residents, and visitors;
– you will be well looked after with training, briefing, guidance, and catering.
We look forward to making Sonsbeek 2026 happen together with you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Question: The exhibition lasts the entire summer. I would like to participate, but I am also going on vacation. Is that possible?
Answer: Yes, that is possible. We ask for a commitment of at least 10 days (or 20 shifts; 1 day = 2 shifts) over the entire 100-day period. You can decide your own schedule via our scheduling app by signing up for full or half days.
Question: I find art interesting, but I don't know much about it. Would volunteering be suitable for me?
Answer: Yes, in that case you are more than welcome. Over the coming months, you will receive a lot of information about the artists and the artworks. Moreover, there are volunteer roles where content knowledge is less needed. What is important is that you enjoy your work. We will work together to find what suits you best.
Question: Is there any compensation?
Answer: In the lead-up to the exhibition, there are regular (free) meetings for volunteers. You will meet artists, curators, and members of the Sonsbeek team. We organize workshops, briefings, and guided tours through the park. During the exhibition, we provide (free) catering. There is no financial compensation. In consultation, we can reimburse travel expenses.
Question: I don't have time to come to the meetings. Can I still become a volunteer?
Answer: Yes, that is certainly possible. The meetings we organize are optional. It is nice if you attend so that we can get to know each other and share information with you. Of course, we also understand that not everyone has the time or need for this. Through the newsletters, we try to keep everyone as well informed as possible so that those who do not attend the meetings stay updated. Just before the exhibition opens, there will be an important presentation about the works. This is the only time we ask everyone to be present. If you really cannot attend this presentation either, we will send you a recording.
Question: I was a volunteer at the previous Sonsbeek exhibition(s). I expected to receive an email with an invitation to sign up again, but I haven't received anything.
Answer: That is correct, because under current privacy laws we are not allowed to save email addresses from previous editions unless people give permission for this. For this reason, we are asking for your permission in the current registration form. That way, we can invite you for the following edition(s).