Organizer Information
Cubitt Artists is a pioneering, artist-led cooperative and registered charity based in London, founded in 1991. Over more than three decades, Cubitt has established itself as a critical platform for experimental contemporary art, combining a non-profit gallery, a renowned curatorial fellowship, affordable artist studios, and a range of public programmes spanning education, civic engagement, and community initiatives.
Distinct from traditional institutions, Cubitt operates through a cooperative governance model led by approximately 30 practising artists. This structure fosters a dynamic and inclusive environment that prioritises artistic experimentation, peer-led practice, and alternative modes of cultural production.
The Cubitt Curatorial Fellowship, launched in 2001 with support from Arts Council England, has become one of the UK’s most respected professional development opportunities for curators. It has supported over 400 artists and numerous curators at pivotal stages in their careers, many of whom have gone on to work with leading international institutions such as Glasgow International, Rijksakademie (Amsterdam), and Kunsthalle Wien.
Title & Description
Cubitt Curatorial Fellowship 2026–2028
The Cubitt Curatorial Fellowship 2026–2028 is a prestigious 24-month residency designed for curators seeking to develop an ambitious and critically engaged curatorial practice within an experimental, artist-led context. Now in its 15th edition, this fellowship offers a unique opportunity to research, develop, and deliver a comprehensive public programme in one of the UK’s most influential independent art spaces.
The selected Fellow will conceive and implement a two-year programme of exhibitions, newly commissioned works, public events, publications, and digital outputs. The programme is expected to reflect a strong curatorial vision that engages with contemporary artistic discourse while responding to social, political, and cultural contexts.
The fellowship includes an initial research and fundraising phase (approximately 4–6 months), followed by the full delivery of the programme. Throughout the residency, the Fellow works closely with Cubitt’s Programmes team, receiving mentorship and institutional support while maintaining a high degree of curatorial autonomy.
This opportunity is particularly suited to curators interested in hybrid practices that intersect artist-led initiatives with institutional frameworks and who are committed to collaboration, dialogue, and community engagement.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Curatorial Practice
- Exhibition Making
- Public Programming
- Interdisciplinary Arts
- Research-based Practice
Eligibility
- Open to curators based in the UK or with the right to work in the UK
- Applicants must have completed formal education at least 24 months prior to applying
- Open to individuals and collectives
- Suitable for emerging to mid-career curators with demonstrated professional experience
- Strong knowledge of contemporary visual art (UK and international contexts) required
- Experience in exhibition-making, fundraising, and project management is essential
Cubitt particularly encourages applications from:
- Artists and curators from Global Majority backgrounds
- LGBTQIA+ practitioners
- Disabled and neurodivergent individuals
- Underrepresented communities in the arts sector
Program Benefits & Awards
- 24-month paid curatorial fellowship
- Salary: £34,500 pro-rata (3 days per week)
- Mentorship from senior programme staff
- Opportunity to curate a full public programme at a leading London gallery
- Access to Cubitt’s extensive network of artists, curators, and partners
- Professional development in fundraising, institutional collaboration, and programme management
- Engagement with Cubitt’s archives, studios, and community programmes
- National and international exposure through partnerships and collaborations
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Completed application form (download from Cubitt website)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form
Applicants are expected to demonstrate:
- Curatorial experience and conceptual approach
- Evidence of past projects and collaborations
- Writing ability (press, essays, or publications)
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted via email to: opportunites@cubittartists.org.uk
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 10 May 2026
- Interview Notification: 21 May 2026
- Interviews: 28 May 2026
- Fellowship Period: June 2026 – May 2028
- Start Date: June 2026 (negotiable)
Location
Angel area, London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
- This is a part-time position (3 days per week, Wednesday–Friday)
- Evening and weekend work may be required (with time off in lieu)
- The fellowship includes a strong fundraising component; applicants should be prepared to actively secure project funding
- The selected Fellow will act as an ambassador for Cubitt within national and international art networks
- Important: Cubitt is not able to sponsor Skilled Worker visas, making this opportunity inaccessible to applicants without UK work authorisation
- Accessibility support is available upon request during the application process