2027 CURATOR’S PROGRAM

Expressions of Interest are now open for Ku Arts’ 2027 Curator’s Program.

What is the Curator's Program?

The Ku Arts’ 2027 Curator’s Program is a week-long professional development opportunity for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists and arts workers who are interested in pursuing a curatorial career or who would like to gain insight into the curatorial process. The program is designed to strengthen First Nations leadership within the visual arts sector and support a new generation of culturally informed curators to shape how First Nations art, stories and cultural knowledge are presented and shared.

The Curator’s Program is delivered by Ku Arts with expert facilitators from TAFE SA and leading galleries.
Funding from Create SA will cover up to 8 participants from across South Australia.
❋ Hands-on practical sessions

With expert facilitation from industry professionals and First Nations curators, participants will learn about hanging heights, spacing, placement, presentation and practical considerations.

❋ Meet industry experts + peers

Engage with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists and curators across programmed sessions while working alongside your peers.

❋ Behind-the-scenes insights

The program includes visits to local institutions, galleries, arts organisations and artist run initiatives with talks + tours from leading arts sector staff and curators.

❋ A Supportive Space

The Curator’s Program is designed to support Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists, arts workers, and emerging curators with culturally safe mentoring.

Image: 2025 Curator’s Program session at Art Lab.
Photo by Mel Henderson.

Image: 2025 Curator’s Program participants at ACE Gallery.
Photo courtesy Ku Arts.

Image: 2025 Curator’s Program session at Art Gallery of South Australia. Photo by Mel Henderson.

Key details

In 2027, the Curator’s Program will be held in Tarntanya/Adelaide from 11 - 22 January.

❋ Who can apply?

We welcome applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists, arts workers and emerging curators residing in South Australia, as well as previous participants of the Curator’s Program.

❋ What's included?

Funding covers travel to and from participant’s home in South Australia, accommodation for the duration of the program, and a travel allowance. All program costs are also covered.

❋ How to apply?

Applications can be submitted using the form below. Submissions can be made in written or video format. If you have any questions about applications please email info@kuarts.com.au

❋ Key dates

Applications will close on 8 November at 11:59pm.
A selection panel will review all submissions before notifying applicants of outcomes by 27 November.

The program will take place between 11 - 22 January 2027. The Ku Arts team will liaise with successful applicants about travel and confirm details during December.

  • "I felt like it was really beneficial for me to connect with like minded individuals who are wanting and are currently pursuing amazing things in the art industry."

    2025 Curator’s Program participant

  • "I loved connecting with the other artists, this was my first time meeting them and I know it won’t be the last. Yarning and being inspired by other Mob was a highlight."

    2025 Curator’s Program participant

  • "I definitely feel like I have more of a foundation now. Learning more about the steps that go on behind the scenes in order to get an exhibition up and running. "

    2025 Curator’s Program participant

  • "Highlights overall was all the learning about the behind the scenes of installing and managing an exhibition, and creating cultural vision and listening to our cultural leaders in the arts industry."

    2025 Curator’s Program Participant

APPLY NOW

Please note that participants must be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and reside in South Australia.

Applications close 8 November 11:59pm.
Please email info@kuarts.com.au with any questions.

Image: Marika Davies, Mel Henderson, Marli Macumba, Cathy Koolmatrie, Mia Speed during the 2025 Curator’s Program. Photo: Keith Warrior