The Art of Exhibition Management: what makes a curatorial idea to successfully happen.

The Art of Exhibition Management: what makes a curatorial idea to successfully happen.

You have a brilliant curatorial concept—now what? This program provides the essential blueprint to transform that idea from a vision into a successful, tangible reality. 

This program provides a holistic, practical journey through the entire lifecycle of an exhibition, equipping participants with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to manage their own successful projects.

Format: Live, interactive online sessions with practical templates, case studies, and guest experts.
Ideal For: Emerging curators, artists producing their own shows, gallery managers, and arts administrators.

An 8-session online intensive program provides a holistic, practical journey through the entire lifecycle of an exhibition, equipping participants with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to manage their own successful projects.

22.06 – 15.07.2026

Deadline: 16 June 2026

Module 1: From spark to blueprint: Grounding your idea 

• Focus: Translating inspiration into an actionable plan.
• Topics:
  • Stress-testing your curatorial thesis: Is it feasible, relevant, and compelling?
  • Defining success: Articulating artistic, educational, and operational goals.
  • Identifying your audience and stakeholders from the start.
  • Activity: Participants pitch their own exhibition idea in one sentence, then expand it into a project charter.

Module 2: The legal and physical framework: loans, spaces & logistics Focus: Protecting the art and securing the environment.

• Topics:
  • The backbone of trust: Loan agreements, insurance, and condition reporting.
  • Museum and institutions: what do you need to know about timing and law.
  • Activity: Draft a professional loan request email and sketch a basic floor plan.

Module 3: The legal and physical framework: loans, spaces & logistics

Focus: shipping and related documentation

• Topics:
  • How to select the best shipping company
  • Schedule the arrival of the works – how to create a succssful coordination
  • Choosing and adapting a venue: White cube, pop-up, or virtual space?
  • Spatial storytelling: First principles of layout and flow.

Module 4: Designing the experience: installation & interpretation Focus: How the audience will encounter and understand your idea.

• Topics:
  • Working with designers and art handlers to realize your vision.
  • Writing that connects: Developing clear, engaging wall texts and labels.
  • The impact of lighting, sightlines, and accessibility.

Module 5: Building the audience: marketing & community for your idea 

• Focus: Ensuring your idea finds its public.
• Topics:
  • Crafting the narrative: marketing your thesis, not just a list of artists.
  • Integrated campaign planning: Social media, email, PR, and partnerships.
  • Creating pre-opening buzz and engaging communities beyond the art world.

Digital extensions: What makes a meaningful online exhibition or virtual walkthrough?

• Activity: write a press release

Module 6: Beyond the walls: documentation and catalog

Focus: Extending the life and impact of your idea.

Topics:

Professional documentation: Why high-quality photos/video are non-negotiable.

Planning for a catalog, website, or archive that lasts.

Module 7: The launch: opening night & public programming 

Focus: The moment your idea meets the world.

• Topics:
  • Executing a flawless opening reception (on-site and hybrid models).
  • Front-of-house operations: Creating a welcoming and safe visitor experience.
  • Extending the conversation: Developing talks, tours, and workshops that deepen the curatorial idea.
  • Activity: Plan one accompanying public program.

Module 8: The architect’s tools: budgets, timelines & fundraising 

• Focus: Building the structural foundations that allow your idea to exist.
• Topics:
  • Creating the budget blueprint: From artwork loans to opening night wine.
  • Building a master project timeline with backward planning from Opening Day.
  • Introduction to fueling the project: grants, sponsorships, and in-kind support.
  • Activity: In breakout rooms, groups build a skeleton budget for a given exhibition concept.

Practical Details & How to Apply

• Format: Live Online Intensive
• Schedule: Mondays & Wednesdays, 22 June – 15 July 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM CET
• Course Fee: €590
• Expert Tutor: Learn from an experienced curator with direct Biennale experience. 
• What You Get:
  • 16 hours of live, interactive seminars.
  • Access to session recordings for flexible viewing.
  • Real-world case studies and practical templates.
  • Direct Q&A access to an expert tutor.
  • A supportive network of peer professionals.

Spaces are strictly limited to ensure a personalised experience.

Application Deadline: 16 June 2026

To apply, please email your CV and a brief statement of interest to curatorialschool@gmail.com. 

APPLICATION FORM