New Art Center Curatorial Opportunity Program 2017

The New Art Center's Curatorial Opportunity Program (COP) supports independent curators of contemporary art by making diverse visions possible in a non-profit and alternative exhibition space. The program investigates contemporary culture through the visual arts, exhibits strong curatorial voices, and encourages the timely examination of new ideas and perspectives. The New Art Center is accepting curatorial proposals for 5- to 6-week group exhibitions from September 2018 – May 2019. Electronic submissions must be received before June 6, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. MDT.

Proposals must include works by two or more artists and at least one public program with an educational component. Exhibitions can include works in a single medium or several media, from painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and video to installation, performance, and sound art. Exhibitions may be organized around medium, process, or social, cultural, historical, theoretical or political concepts. If including one's own work, it should not be the main focus of the exhibition and should only be included if it supports the thesis.

The New Art Center provides a $1,000 USD curator stipend, a set budget for printing a postcard invitation, public relations support, insurance up to $150,000 for artwork, physical assistance in preparing the space and installing work, an opening reception with refreshments, and gallery signage. The NAC does not provide transportation of artworks or artists, or pay for installation construction beyond basic installation and wall configuration. The Main Gallery is approximately 2,500 square feet with 25-foot vaulted ceilings, substantial natural light, and several movable wall panels. A visit to the gallery prior to application is advised and encouraged. All artists and curators are eligible regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, belief, national origin, sexual orientation or physical abilities. While artists and curators from the greater Boston area are encouraged to participate, there are no geographic restrictions. The NAC does not pay for travel expenses or shipping of artwork. Proposals must include a curator's statement of concept, artist list, proposed public program(s), artist agreement confirming participation, and resumes with references. A maximum of 30 images will be reviewed, with a maximum of 12 images per artist. A maximum of 6 audio files and 6 video files can be uploaded.