MA Curating Art

Program Overview

The MA Curating Art program at Newcastle University is a unique interdisciplinary course that combines academic theory with practical experience. Students have the opportunity to curate exhibitions, work directly with artists, and engage with a range of contemporary art practices and curatorial techniques. The program emphasizes a collaborative approach, encouraging students to work alongside galleries, museums, and arts organizations to bring art exhibitions to life. Students gain a deep understanding of curatorial history, methodologies, and contemporary art practices. The program offers a dynamic learning environment, allowing students to develop the critical skills needed for curating exhibitions, managing public programming, and engaging with diverse audiences. With access to world-class art collections, partnerships with renowned institutions, and opportunities to collaborate with local and international artists, students are well-positioned to enter the art world with a strong practical and theoretical foundation.

Curriculum: The MA Curating Art program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical and practical aspects of curating. The program is structured around core modules that cover topics such as curatorial theory, exhibition design, audience engagement, and the history of art institutions. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the social, cultural, and historical contexts of curating art, while also equipping them with practical skills needed for exhibition planning, collection management, and public programming. Students have the opportunity to work with the university's extensive art collections and collaborate with external cultural partners. The program includes a substantial research component, where students engage in independent projects and develop their curatorial vision through exhibitions or written research. Additionally, students have the opportunity to gain experience through placements and internships within art galleries, museums, and cultural organizations.

Research Focus: The MA Curating Art program at Newcastle University emphasizes critical research and the exploration of contemporary curatorial practices. Research areas include the relationship between curating and social issues, the role of curators in shaping artistic narratives, the history of exhibition-making, and the evolving role of museums and galleries in the digital age. Students have the freedom to explore their specific research interests, whether it be in the areas of contemporary art, museum studies, or the relationship between art and society. The program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from fields such as history, philosophy, sociology, and cultural theory. Students are encouraged to develop original research projects that explore innovative curatorial strategies, challenge traditional exhibition formats, and engage with new media and digital technologies. The faculty members at Newcastle University are experts in the field, offering guidance and mentorship as students pursue their individual research interests.

Industry Engagement: Newcastle University has strong ties with a wide range of cultural institutions, galleries, museums, and art organizations, both locally and internationally. The MA Curating Art program offers numerous opportunities for industry engagement through placements, internships, and collaborative projects with leading cultural institutions. Students are encouraged to gain practical experience by working with art galleries, museums, and arts festivals, applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world curatorial practices. The program also provides opportunities for students to collaborate with artists, curators, and cultural professionals, allowing them to develop a professional network and gain insights into the inner workings of the art world. The program’s focus on industry engagement ensures that students graduate with the skills and connections needed to thrive in the competitive art and cultural sectors.

Global Perspective: The MA Curating Art program at Newcastle University offers a global perspective on curatorial practice, encouraging students to engage with contemporary art from around the world. The program attracts a diverse student body, with students from various cultural and academic backgrounds, creating a rich learning environment that promotes international exchange and collaboration. The curriculum incorporates a global understanding of art practices, allowing students to explore how curating functions in different cultural contexts and across a range of institutions worldwide. Through partnerships with international institutions and cultural organizations, students have opportunities to engage with global curatorial networks and gain exposure to international exhibitions and art events. The global perspective embedded in the program prepares students to work in an increasingly globalized art world, where curators play an essential role in shaping the international art dialogue.