Short Description

The Biennale of Sydney is a leading international contemporary art event. It plays an indispensable role in Australia’s engagement with the world, and a meaningful role in the life of the nation. For over 50 years, the Biennale has been a unifying force in the Australian arts sector, embedding boldly creative art exhibitions and experiences in the everyday life of Sydney and putting the artistic excellence of Australia front and centre on the world stage.

Eligibility

The Search Committee and Biennale of Sydney Board of Directors, through the recruitment process for the Artistic Director of the 26th Biennale of Sydney (2028), seek candidates who demonstrate the following:

  • An inspiring and timely curatorial vision for the 26th edition of the Biennale of Sydney, anchored in
    contemporary art practices and audience impact that are canons for what the Biennale of Sydney is now, and what it can be into the future.
  • Demonstrated experience in curating or producing large-scale, multi-site exhibitions or cultural programs, including within both traditional and non-traditional spaces. Someone who can activate Sydney in a compelling and serious way.
  • Availability, and a collaborative and culturally sensitive approach to working with artists, staff, communities, and peers. Can commit to part-time engagement from May-July 2027, then full-time from July 2027 to March 2028.
  • Experience supporting First Nations-led projects, with the ability to navigate this work respectfully with the support of experienced advisors and team members.
  • A strong commitment to developing and presenting audience engagement initiatives in partnership with other companies, organisations, festivals and events across Sydney that reflects how people want to experience art and events today.
  • A proven ability to commission, develop and source funding for new, site-specific, or experimental works with contemporary artists that are ambitious, innovative, and capable of engaging broad audiences and critical attention.
  • Demonstrated ability to liaise and negotiate with artists, staff and presenting partners to ensure limited resources are strategically deployed for optimal outcomes for artists and audiences.
  • A practical understanding of space, including how artists and audiences interact with physical and
    conceptual environments, and how this impacts exhibition design and production.
  • Financial acumen, including experience with significant budgets and the ability to prioritise resources and make sound decisions in collaboration with the executive team.
  • Outstanding communication skills, both written and spoken, as the position involves developing written proposals, writing curatorial texts, and articulating ideas with clarity to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
  • Capacity to maintain confidentiality and support the timely delivery of marketing, communications and media strategies in the lead-up to the Biennale.
  • Familiarity with public and private funding landscapes and the ability to support fundraising efforts,
    including the development of compelling curatorial cases and a compelling program that attracts support
  • Ability to effectively employ his/her/their local and international network, and the capacity to build and nurture long-term partnerships.
  • Willingness and ability to undertake international and domestic travel for research and relationship-building, and to be based in Sydney during the critical development and delivery period (July 2027 – March 2028).

Submission Requirements

Personal Information

  • Full name
  • Country and city where you are based
  • Phone number (including country and area code)
  • Email address
  • Primary language spoken
  • Do you require an interpreter? (Yes/No)
  • Pronoun(s)
  • Do you have any access requirements? (Please outline)

Supporting Documents

  1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Maximum 2 pages
  • Highlight relevant professional experience, artistic leadership, and curatorial or programming

2. Statement of Intent (maximum 500 words, 2 pages)

  • Outline your vision or methodology for the 26th Biennale of Sydney.
  1. – Your vision and how it relates to the contemporary context.
  2. – The intended impact on audiences.
  3. – The Biennale canons that are most important to you.
  4. – Why are you interested in this role, and why now?
  5. – The types of artists you would be interested in engaging with.

How to Apply

Online Application

Entry Fee

None

Location

Sydney, Australia

Timeline

  • Application Deadline: 29 October 2025

Website Link: https://www.biennaleofsydney.art/

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