Internships/Job at the Philadelphia Folklore Project, 03/98

2/16/98
POSITIONS AVAILABLE AT THE PHILADELPHIA FOLKLORE PROJECT

SUMMER INTERNSHIP: Field researchers for Caribbean Folk Arts Exhibition. The Philadelphia Folklore project is seeking, conditional upon funding, fieldworkers to conduct preliminary research for an exhibition on "Caribbean Folk Arts," to occur in the spring of 1999 at Taller Puertorriqueno, a Latino cultural center in Philadelphia. This project will involve a survey of the arts of Puerto Ricans, Haitians, Trinidadians, Jamaicans and Dominicans who have settled in the neighborhoods of Philadelphia. Researchers are expected to identify significant traditions suitable for inclusion in an exhibition, to identify and interview artists, to document and photograph artists' work, and to recommend themes, issues and artists for the exhibition. Ability to travel easily within Philadelphia necessary. Second language (Spanish, Haitian Creole) important. Facility with a camera useful. The positions are for 10-16 weeks of full-time work to occur between April and August 1998, with a stipend of $4,000 - $6,400.

SUMMER INTERNSHIP: Research for Guide to Philadelphia Folklife Resources. The Philadelphia Folklore Project is seeking a researcher to revise and expand a publication profiling the folk cultural activities of diverse Philadelphia organizations. Published in 1991, the Guide has gone out of print twice, and serves as a means of making the folklife and history of a wide range of community groups better known. Tasks to be undertaken include expanding an existing database through research and fieldwork, following up questionnaires, conducting site visits and interviews, and writing profiles of the folk cultural work of various agencies. Familiarity with a wide range of folklife traditions, and with grassroots community groups helpful. High level of organization, resourcefulness, creativity and excellent writing skills necessary. The position is for 10-16 weeks of full-time work, to occur between May and August 1998, with a stipend of $4,000 - $6,400.

PART-TIME POSITION: Field researchers/team member for Philly Dance Africa Project. The Philadelphia Folklore project is seeking an additional staff member to undertake field research and assist in planning and implementing a second "Philly Dance Africa" project showcasing the music and dance of Africans in Philadelphia. To occur in the fall of 1998, this project is a collaboration with African community groups, and it culminates in social dance workshops and a participatory social dance party featuring significant dance from peoples' home countries. The position involves field research in African immigrant communities (possibly Senegalese, Nigerian and/or East African) in Philadelphia. The researcher is expected to identify significant music and dance traditions suitable for inclusion in the project, to identify and interview dancers and drummers, to document and tape record artists' work, to recommend performers for the program, and, dependent upon availability, to assist in planning and implementing the event this fall. The researcher should be able to travel easily within Philadelphia, and to use a tape recorder. Second language (French) useful. Salary negotiable, commensurate with experience.

TO APPLY: Please apply for any of the above positions with a letter describing your interests and background and a resume. Letters of inquiry are due March 30, 1997. Direct letters to Dr. Debora Kodish, Director, Philadelphia Folklore Project, 1304 Wharton Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147. (215) 468-7871. dgkpfp@aol.com

The Philadelphia Folklore Project is an 11-year-old independent public folklife agency committed to researching, interpreting and presenting local folk arts and cultures. We assist artists and communities, conduct research, organize around issues of concern, develop exhibitions, offer public programs, workshops and technical assistance, maintain an archive, and issue publications and resources. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of color.