Short Description
Oregon Contemporary invites proposals for its Curator in Residence (CIR) program for the 2026–27 exhibition season.
The CIR program offers a unique opportunity for mid-career curators to deepen their practice through a one year (low-residency) research opportunity that culminates in a major group exhibition in FY2027. Designed for curators with an established body of work, the program supports rigorous research, interdisciplinary exchange, and engagement with contemporary discourse, with a special emphasis on Oregon’s artistic landscape.
The 2026-27 Curator in Residence (CIR) program expands through a new partnership with the Sitka Center for Art and Ecology. Since its founding in 2011, the CIR program has been a vital catalyst for curatorial innovation, supporting mid-career voices in the field in developing ambitious projects that culminate in major exhibitions at Oregon Contemporary. With the addition of Sitka’s residency component, curators will engage in dedicated research, writing, and reflection within an unparalleled interdisciplinary setting in Otis, OR. This immersive period will allow curators to develop deeper connections to place while expanding the intellectual scope of their projects.
The enhanced initiative underscores Oregon Contemporary’s commitment to supporting bold, experimental curatorial work. Together, this partnership increases artistic and community engagement statewide and ensures that the program continues to serve as a nationally recognized model for advancing contemporary curatorial practice and elevating Oregon’s role within the global arts community.
Eligibility
● Minimum three years of significant curatorial experience. Five or more years of experience and/or graduate-level education in curatorial studies or a related field is preferred but not required.
● Awareness of contemporary arts issues, practices, and artists. A clear and distinct curatorial vision that is consistent with Ox’s mission and values.
● Enthusiasm for becoming familiar with Oregon and the Pacific Northwest regional contemporary art.
● Experience working independently and as part of a team within an arts organization.
● Experience organizing and communicating messages effectively through writing and public presentation to different audiences.
● Experience managing large exhibitions, staying within budgets, and meeting deadlines.
Submission Requirements
- Curatorial statement and vision for the Oregon Contemporary Curator in Residence Program.
- Professional resume.
- Examples of past curatorial work, including images and critical reviews.
- Two writing samples for different audiences (ex., academic/art groups, a broader audience new to art).
- Contact info for three professional references.
How to Apply
All applications must be sent via email to Dustin Williams at dustin@oregoncontemporary.org. The subject line must read: Curator in Residence 2026-27 Application.
Program Benefits & Awards
Curatorial honorarium is $8,000. A stipend of $500 per week is available for each week spent in residency at Sitka, to be used for transportation, meals, etc. The exhibition budget ranges from $12-25K for artists’ honorariums, programming, art production, travel, and shipping combined.
Budgets are reflective of the scope of exhibition and engagement as well as fundraising considerations. In-house graphic design services, exhibition installation support, and some administrative/logistical assistance in engaging with artists is provided by Oregon Contemporary.
Entry Fee
None
Location
Portland, OR, United States
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 12 October 2025
Website Link: https://www.oregoncontemporary.org/curator-in-residence
