Application deadline: August 3, 2026
Gwangju 61104
South Korea
The Gwangju Biennale Foundation has announced an international open call for the Artistic Director of the 17th Gwangju Biennale, marking a significant shift in the Biennale’s curatorial selection process. Until now, the Artistic Director has been selected through a recommendation-based system, in which a small group of advisors nominated candidates for consideration and a final director was appointed from among them.
While the existing system has often brought in internationally renowned figures, the Biennale is embracing a new approach to honor its landmark 30-year history. The transition is meant to uphold the spirit of Gwangju and the pride of its legacy while establishing a more democratic and transparent selection process. This change reflects a commitment to prioritizing curatorial vision, exhibition content, and professional capability over individual reputation.
The open call is open to exhibition professionals and curators from around the world, regardless of nationality, gender, or age. Applications may be submitted by individuals or by teams of two or more co-artistic directors. Collaborative proposals involving both domestic and international professionals are also encouraged.
The Foundation seeks innovative exhibition proposals that can artistically embody the spirit of Gwangju grounded in democracy, peace, and human rights while introducing new critical discourses and contributing to the advancement of contemporary art. Through this fully open process, the Foundation hopes to attract outstanding curators and exhibition-makers from Korea and abroad.
The selected Artistic Director will oversee the main exhibition of the 17th Gwangju Biennale, scheduled to take place in 2028.
Applications will be accepted from June 8 to August 3, 2026 . Applicants must submit all required documents, including an application form, exhibition proposal, and portfolio, via email to gb17@gwangjubiennale.org. Detailed application guidelines and submission requirements are available on the official Gwangju Biennale website.
The Foundation will review all applications received by 6pm KST on August 3, 2026, with the document screening scheduled for August 2026. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to present their exhibition proposals and participate in interviews in September. Following the evaluation process, one Artistic Director (or one curatorial team) will be selected. The final result is expected to be officially announced in October 2026.
