Are you looking to gain hands-on curatorial experience?
Apply now to join an exciting training programme, co-developed by CVAN London and Brent Council, designed to equip emerging curators and creatives with the essential skills to curate exhibitions at the Willesden Gallery, located within The Library at Willesden Green.
Programme Overview:
- Training: Comprehensive instruction in curation, exhibition planning, resource management, and artist outreach.
- Real Experience: Participants will curate multiple exhibitions over the next 12 months.
- Community Engagement: The programme will integrate the Becoming Brent heritage project, highlighting Brent’s unique stories through curated exhibitions.
Application Details:
- Applications Open: 29th November 2024
- Deadline: Midnight,12th January 2025
- Applicants Contacted: 28th January
- Curatorial Induction Days: 12th and 13th February (10.30 am – 4.00 pm)
- Holiday Break: Please note, there will be no office contact or feedback from 13th December 2024 to 5th January 2025.
- Bursary: The programme is funded by Brent Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Upon successful completion of the programme, you’ll receive a bursary of 1000 (one thousand) pounds.
- Programme Completion requirements: Attend the two curatorial induction days, 80% of twelve workshops/mentoring sessions and participate in the curation of two exhibitions throughout a twelve-month period.
- How to apply: via this form
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be members of the Brent Artist Network (BAN). To be eligible for BAN membership and this curatorial programme, applicants must:
- Live or work in the London Borough of Brent. This can include delivering lessons or doing voluntary work.
- Be at any stage of their creative journey, whether a practising artist, aspiring creative, hobbyist, or student.
- Be over 18
- Identify as a creative practitioner in one or more of the following disciplines: Visual Arts (including Museums and Galleries), Theatre, Music, Dance, Literature, Film & Television, Animation, Fashion Design, Architecture, Crafts, or related practices.
About the Brent Artist Network (BAN):
BAN is a vibrant community of artists and creatives dedicated to supporting and showcasing the work of local talent in Brent. BAN offers access to networking events, workshops, exhibitions, and partnerships with cultural organisations, helping artists advance their careers, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in Brent’s cultural life. Membership is currently free, and new creatives are always welcome to join. Learn more and sign up for BAN membership here.
About CVAN London:
CVAN London, a research-led, free-to-access advocacy network for artists and arts professionals, will provide essential sector support to this project. The organisation is committed to fostering sustainability across the arts sector by collaborating with multidisciplinary research and regional partners like Brent Council. CVAN London also has a free network for artists, find out more about it here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the Curatorial Training Programme?
Applicants must be members of the Brent Artist Network (BAN), live or work in the London Borough of Brent, and work within a creative discipline. BAN members from all stages of their creative careers, including hobbyists, students, and established professionals, are welcome.
2. I’m not currently a member of the Brent Artist Network (BAN). Can I join now to apply?
Yes, you can join BAN before applying for this programme. Membership is free, and joining is easy. Sign up here to access more information and confirm your eligibility.
3. What creative disciplines does the programme cove
BAN includes a wide range of creative fields, such as Visual Arts, Dance, Literature, Music, Theatre, Film & Television, Animation, Fashion Design, Architecture, Crafts, and more. If you work in a related practice not listed here, we encourage you to reach out or apply anyway.
4. Will applicants receive feedback if they are not selected?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer individual feedback to applicants due to limited resources and high demand. Additionally, the office will be closed from 13th December 2024 to 5th January 2025, so we may not be able to respond to queries during that time.
5. Do I need previous curatorial experience to apply?
No prior curatorial experience is required! This programme is designed to support creatives at various stages, from those new to curation to those seeking to deepen their skills. A genuine interest in exhibition management and curation is key.
6. What is the time commitment for the programme?
The programme runs over 12 months. Participants will be expected to commit time to both training sessions and exhibition preparation, including a mandatory in-person two-day curatorial induction at Willesden Library on the 12th and 13th of February 2025. Specific schedules will be provided after selection.
7. Where will the programme activities take place?
Training sessions and exhibitions will be held at the Willesden Green Library gallery. Some sessions may also take place virtually or at other locations within the Borough of Brent as needed.
8. Are there any costs involved in participating?
There are no fees for participating in this programme, as it is funded by Brent Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with CVAN London. However, participants must be able to cover their travel to and from the programme locations within Brent.
9. What is the Becoming Brent initiative, and how is it related to this programme?
Becoming Brent is a project funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund to highlight Brent’s cultural heritage and untold stories. As part of the programme, participants will create exhibitions that reflect this initiative, connecting Brent’s past and present through art.
10. What support will CVAN London provide to participants?
CVAN London will offer curatorial training, mentorship, and guidance throughout the programme. Participants will gain skills in curation, resource management, exhibition planning, and artist outreach, preparing them for future opportunities in the arts.
11. Can I apply if I only live part-time in Brent?
Yes, as long as you either live, work, or deliver creative activities in the London Borough of Brent, you are eligible to join BAN and apply for this programme.
12. What happens if I miss the deadline or submit my application late?
Applications close strictly at midnight on 12th January 2025. Late applications cannot be considered, so we encourage you to submit early to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
