London's V&A has an interesting opportunity for Taylor Swift superfans. Photo: AFP
In just two decades, Taylor Swift has risen from a country-pop singer to an international phenomenon. Such is her influence that she has attracted the interest of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The London institution recently posted a recruitment advert aimed at the pop star's fans, so-called Swifties.
The V&A Museum is looking to enlist a Swift "superfan advisor" to help the museum rethink its vast collection of 2.8 million items so that it best reflects "current cultural trends."
The specialist will take part in meetings with the London museum's curators to share their expertise on the American singer.
"We’re always looking to learn more about our collection, whilst acting as cultural trendspotters on what to collect next. So, we want to hear from you about your hyper niche interest and why it is important to the history of Art and Design, and the future of creativity," reads the V&A job ad.
Swift's popularity is unrivalled.
At 34, she is the world's most listened-to artist on music streaming platforms. Her lyrics are studied at numerous universities, including Harvard, just like any other great name in literature. Her fans flock to every one of her shows, so much so that her global "The Eras Tour" had already grossed over US$1bil (RM4.8bil) by the end of 2023.
London's V&A Museum is looking to enlist a Swift 'superfan advisor' to help the museum rethink its vast collection of 2.8 million items so that it best reflects 'current cultural trends.' Photo: Handout
But the influence of the singer, voted "Person of the Year 2023" by Time magazine, is not limited to music. Swift is taking on a growing presence in the political arena, and especially in the run-up to the American presidential election on Nov 5.
Democrat Joe Biden's clan is hoping she'll lend him her support and, who knows, he might even show up at one of her concerts, along with hundreds of thousands of spectators patiently awaiting their idol's voting instructions.
Indeed, Americans are ready to trust Swift's opinion when it comes to electing their next president, especially young people.
Against this backdrop, it's hardly surprising that the V&A is looking to arm itself with a Swiftie so as not to miss out on this social phenomenon.
Fans of the singer who would like to work with the London museum have until March 7 to apply.
For non-Swifties, the V&A has also launched a call for applications from Crocs aficionados, emoji freaks, tufting enthusiasts and fans of drag culture. – AFP
