Curating Contemporary Art Exhibitions One

Course details

This course aims to introduce to students the enormous scope of contemporary art practice internationally, investigating the role of the curator within this field. From looking into current critical discourse on the subject of curating, to the practical skills that are necessary, the course will focus on the social, political, philosophical and aesthetic concerns that arise from engaging in this area. Through gallery tours to both commercial and independent spaces and meeting with various practitioners in the field students will understand the role curators play in shaping the way we experience contemporary art. We will look at the role of the curator with a practical perspective and approach the subjects of exhibition making, market values, co-ordinating projects and working with artists. We will introduce students to the idea of the curator as a builder of narratives and cultural connections. Through participating in the curation of a group exhibition at the Meem gallery, students will learn how curating can act as a vehicle for exporting contemporary thinking within the visual arts and the broader cultural landscape.

Course Outcomes

On completion of this course students will have an understanding of the role of curator within the context of the contemporary art world. Students will have the skills to engage critically with artworks, understand the specific cultural contexts within which art works are situated Students will also have learned practical skills which will enable them to take themes and ideas forward to ultimately curate an exhibition.

Who Should Attend

Anyone who is interested in the display, site and context of contemporary art and has a desire to work within the exhibitions field is welcome on this course. An educational background in either fine art or art history is preferred but not mandatory. A broad interest of contemporary art practice is desirable in order to get the most from this course.