Organizer Information
Backwater Artists Group is an artist-led organization based in Cork, Ireland, dedicated to supporting contemporary visual arts. The group provides exhibition opportunities, studio spaces, and professional development for artists and curators, fostering a collaborative and innovative artistic community. Their programming emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and socially engaged practices.
Title & Description
Emerging Curator Award 2027
This award supports an emerging curator to develop and strengthen their curatorial practice through hands-on experience. The selected curator will produce a group exhibition or project at Backwater Artists’ Studio 12 space as part of the 2027 artistic program. The award emphasizes professional development, mentorship, and exposure to all aspects of exhibition production, from concept to installation and public engagement.
Categories
Curatorial Practice, Visual Arts, Exhibition Production, Contemporary Art
Eligibility
Open to emerging curators and recent graduates seeking to advance their curatorial practice. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in contemporary visual arts and a commitment to professional development.
Program Benefits & Awards
- €2,000 curator fee, covering an initial studio visit and a public engagement event
- Exhibition production fee (TBC, dependent on funding)
- €1,000 mentorship from an established curator
- €500 travel and accommodation support
- Technical installation support
- Marketing and PR assistance
- Administrative support
- Artist fees paid to participating artists
- Professional photography documentation of the exhibition/project
- Commissioned exhibition text
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Curatorial CV
- Exhibition proposal (max 500 words) outlining concept and curatorial framework
- Biography
- Images of previous curatorial projects demonstrating exhibition-making practice
How to Apply?
Submit a single PDF file via email to elaine@backwaterartists.ie with the subject line “Emerging Curator Award.”
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 20 January 2025
- Exhibition/Project slot: 4 weeks during 2027 (specific dates TBD with the awardee)
Location
Wandesford Quay, Cork, Ireland
Additional Details
The awardee will work closely with the Backwater Artists team throughout the production process, gaining experience in project management, public engagement, and professional networking. All amounts and fees are subject to confirmation based on funding.