Organizer Information
Serpentine is a leading contemporary art institution based in London, United Kingdom, internationally recognized for its innovative exhibitions, commissions, and interdisciplinary public programming. The organization operates two gallery spaces in Kensington Gardens and is widely known for its commitment to experimental artistic practices, commissioning groundbreaking new work across Visual Arts, architecture, digital culture, performance, and socially engaged practice.
A core part of Serpentine’s mission is its live and public programming, which expands the experience of contemporary art beyond static exhibition formats. Through initiatives such as talks, performances, participatory events, film screenings, and interdisciplinary gatherings, Serpentine positions itself as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, critical dialogue, and audience engagement.
Title & Description
Live Programmes Curator Job – Serpentine (London)
Serpentine is seeking an experienced interdisciplinary Curator to lead and develop its Live Programmes strand in London, United Kingdom. This permanent role focuses on designing and producing a year-round programme of live events that extend and activate the institution’s exhibitions and curatorial vision.
The role is central to shaping how audiences experience contemporary art through formats such as talks, performances, workshops, screenings, participatory experiences, and cross-disciplinary events. Rather than functioning as an interpretation, the Live Programme is positioned as an extension, interruption, and expansion of curatorial practice.
The successful candidate will develop innovative formats that bring together Curatorial thinking with performance, dialogue, experimentation, and audience engagement across Interdisciplinary Arts practices.
The Role Overview
- Position Title: Live Programmes Curator
- Institution: Serpentine
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Salary: £45,000 per year
- Reporting Structure: Works closely with Programmes, Production, Audience, and Editorial teams
- Working Model: Hybrid (3 days onsite, 2 days remote)
This role involves both strategic curatorial leadership and hands-on production management, requiring strong experience in live cultural programming across gallery, museum, festival, or performance contexts.
Position & Tasks
Programme Development & Curatorial Leadership
- Conceive and curate a year-round Festival of live events linked to exhibitions and commissions.
- Develop new interdisciplinary formats across Performance, Music, Film, literature, technology, and social practice.
- Identify and collaborate with emerging and established artists, thinkers, and cultural practitioners.
Production & Delivery
- Lead planning and delivery of live events including talks, workshops, screenings, and performances.
- Manage timelines, budgets, scheduling, and delivery logistics for all programmes.
- Coordinate closely with internal departments and external collaborators.
- Oversee technical, spatial, and audience experience requirements for live events.
Audience Engagement & Innovation
- Design programming that expands access for diverse and multi-generational audiences.
- Develop participatory and socially engaged approaches to live cultural experiences.
- Collaborate with communications teams to shape audience narratives and engagement strategies.
Collaboration & Partnerships
- Build relationships with artists, collectives, institutions, and community partners locally and internationally.
- Contribute to cross-departmental planning and institutional strategy.
- Ensure alignment between curatorial vision and production execution.
Institutional Responsibilities
- Support Serpentine’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility.
- Follow institutional policies including health, safety, and workplace ethics.
- Contribute to broader programming and strategic development where required.
Categories
- Curatorial
- Performance
- Interdisciplinary Arts
- Visual Arts
- Film/Video
- Literature
- Sound/Music
- Public Presentation
- Festival
- Research
- Art Management
- Education
Eligibility
- Significant experience in curating or producing live cultural programmes.
- Strong interdisciplinary curatorial practice across multiple art forms.
- Proven ability to develop and deliver complex live events.
- Excellent project management skills, including budgeting and scheduling.
- Strong professional networks within contemporary art and live culture sectors.
- Experience engaging diverse audiences and communities.
- Ability to work collaboratively across institutional departments.
- Familiarity with digital or hybrid programming formats.
This position is suited to mid-to-senior-level professionals with a strong background in Contemporary Art programming and live event production.
Program Benefits
- Permanent curatorial position at a leading international art institution.
- Annual salary of £45,000.
- Opportunity to shape a high-profile live programme within one of the UK’s most influential cultural organisations.
- Access to international artistic networks and collaborations.
- Hybrid working model (office and remote flexibility).
- Paid annual leave (25–30 days depending on tenure) plus UK bank holidays.
- Pension scheme and additional employee benefits after probation.
- Professional development within experimental and interdisciplinary programming.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Cover Letter addressing:
- Relevant skills and experience
- Examples of past curatorial or live programme work
- Motivation for applying to Serpentine and this role
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 10 July 2026
- First Stage Interviews: Week commencing 20 July 2026
- Second Stage Interviews: Week commencing 27 July 2026
- Contract Type: Permanent
Location
London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
- Role requires occasional evening and weekend work for events and programming.
- Strong emphasis on experimental and cross-disciplinary approaches to live programming.
- Focus on audience accessibility, inclusion, and innovation in cultural formats.
- Candidate will contribute to shaping institutional strategy for public engagement and live arts programming.