International Curatorial Symposium 2017: Adventurous Curators and International Perspectives

  • 10 July 2017

Have you ever wondered how galleries earn the title of leading and pioneering? What makes a contemporary art gallery’s program progressive and relevant?

What does De La Warr Pavilion, a Grade I Listed Modernist Building situated in the seaside town of Bexhill-on-Sea in East Sussex, have in common with The New Museum in New York, Manhattan’s only dedicated contemporary art museum? Does a shared approach exist between Kunsthalle Zurich, an arts center dedicated to exhibitions and publications, and the Hammer Museum, a gallery in partnership with an educational university located in downtown Los Angeles?

These issues, and more, were investigated in Hauser & Wirth Somerset’s first International Curatorial Symposium: ‘Adventurous Curators – International Perspectives’ on Monday 10 July, following our inaugural International Curatorial Residency.

The symposium was a forum for reflection and thought-provoking discussions around the different models of contemporary art galleries. It voiced international perspectives on what makes a dynamic and enduring art gallery. Stemming from the residency, each of the four curators explored different models of curatorial practice, cultural activism, education and more – referencing their own institutions, as well as Hauser & Wirth Somerset itself, through individual presentations. The day concludes with a panel discussion chaired by Jonathan Watkins, Director of Ikon Gallery in Birmingham.

Speakers

Daniel Baumann
Director, Kunsthalle Zurich

Gary Carrion-Murayari
Associate Curator, The New Museum, New York

Rosie Cooper
Head of Exhibitions, De La Warr Pavilion, UK

Anne Ellegood
Senior Curator, The Hammer Museum, Los Angeles

Jonathan Watkins
Director, Ikon Gallery, Birmingham (Chair)