On August 29, the Gwangju Biennale Academy International Curator Course, which resumed after six years, successfully launched. The program, running until September 12, includes 15 curatorial professionals from 12 countries, including European nations like the UK and Italy, as well as Asian countries such as India, China, and Singapore.
 
A total of 177 individuals from 56 countries applied when the program was publicly announced in July, resulting in a competitive ratio of 12 to 1, reflecting significant international interest in the Gwangju Biennale.
 
The program began with a keynote lecture by Nicolas Bourriaud, the Artistic Director of the 15th Gwangju Biennale, and features renowned figures in the art world as instructors, including Sook-kyung Lee, Director of the Whitworth Art Gallery and Artistic Director of the 14th Gwangju Biennale; Massimiliano Gioni, Director of the New Museum and Artistic Director of the 8th Gwangju Biennale; Noam Sega, LG Electronics Associate Curator of Solomon R Guggenheim Museum; and Aaron Cezar, Director of the Delfina Foundation.

The 15 participants will not only attend the opening ceremony, symposium, and artist talks of the 15th Gwangju Biennale but also participate in various workshops, including visits to cultural and arts institutions and roundtable discussions. Through this professional curator training course featuring world-renowned speakers, participants are expected to gain an in-depth understanding of the 15th Gwangju Biennale and curating, along with opportunities for interdisciplinary discussions.
 
The International Curator Course is designed to nurture emerging professionals in international exhibition planning and execution, providing on-site education for practitioners in the field of contemporary visual arts and culture. Originally launched as the International Curator Course in 2009, this year marks its 9th edition. Notable alumni include Mi You, Professor at the University of Kassel, and Leanne Dmyterko, Director of the Gustav Metzger Foundation.

References

• 광주비엔날레 보도자료 (Gwangju Biennale Press Release)