Short Description:
This opportunity is intended to support curators in researching, learning from, and working closely with contemporary artistic practices in the UAE, while building conversations with wider Arabic-speaking geographies, including diasporic contexts.
Rather than fully finalized exhibition proposals, we are seeking tight curatorial concepts that are grounded in critical inquiry and open to development. Selected curators will work closely with the 421 team to expand their research, connect with local practitioners, and refine their curatorial direction over several months.
Applicants are invited to reflect on the following prompts:
- What narratives are currently shaping Arabic-speaking geographies?
- What artistic gestures are emerging from the margins of these contexts?
- How can curatorial work become a space for listening, translation, and reimagination?
About the Development Process
One proposal will be selected for further development. The selected curator(s) will engage in a research and workshopping phase with 421’s curatorial and programs teams. This phase includes:
- Opportunities for studio visits and introductions to UAE-based artists
- Guidance in adapting and expanding the curatorial proposal
- Research and production support from the 421 team
The final exhibition must include 50% UAE-based artists. However, applicants are not expected to meet this threshold in their initial proposal. 421 will support curators in identifying and connecting with relevant artists during the development phase.
While 421 encourages experimental exhibition formats, significant architectural changes to the space (such as construction of new walls or ceiling structures) are generally discouraged unless absolutely necessary.
All applicants will need to review and confirm that they have read and understood the Exhibition Making Process
At 421 Arts Campus document.
Eligibility:
421 invites curators and curatorial collectives to submit proposals for an exhibition to be developed and presented at 421 during Winter/Spring 2027.
Program Benefits or Awards:
- A competitive curatorial fee will be offered (to be shared in the case of a collective)
- 421 will provide full production support, including fabrication, shipping, installation
- All exhibition promotion will be provided by 421
- All exhibition interpretative tools will be developed by 421, in collaboration with the curator and artists
- The exhibition will take place in Gallery 2 (Please find the floor plan here)
Entry Fee: none
Location: Abu Dhabi
Deadline: Oct 20, 2025
Website link:
https://www.421.online/opportunities
