AAMC Foundation Engagement Program for International Curators

Applications are now open for the inaugural term of the AAMC Foundation Engagement Program for International Curators, made possible with major support from the Terra Foundation for American Art. The two-year Program will accept three non-US based curators and three US Liaisons working on or having worked within exhibitions and projects that explore historic American Art (c. 1500-1980), including painting; sculpture; works on paper, including prints, drawing and photography; decorative arts; and excluding architecture; design; and performance. Applications are now open for International Awardees and US Liaisons, and are due by October 15, 2016. 

Through fostering international relationships between curators, the Program aims to not only provide opportunities for professional development and exchange within our field, but also to expand and strengthen the international curatorial community and give primacy to the curatorial voice in the international dialogue between museum professionals. The Program will be an active part of building international partnerships, leading cross-border conversations, and spearheading international representation within AAMC’s membership & AAMC Foundation’s efforts.

The first year of the Program pairs an International Awardee with a US Liaison for a direct partnership, during which time the pair will conduct ongoing discussions on the area sought by the International Awardee. The Liaison will offer insight into the International Awardee’s desired focus of advancement, which could include leadership, research, creating cross-border exhibitions, loan development, understanding US fundraising models, marketing initiatives, navigating galleries in the US, and so on. The International Awardee will also be part of AAMC’s Curator’s Circle donor group, allowing for interaction with leaders at this level and bringing their voice and experience to our supporters.

The second year of the Program provides the International Awardee with a travel stipend and complimentary registration for AAMC & AAMC Foundation’s Annual Conference & Meeting. Gathering together on average 350 curators from around the country, AAMC’s largest annual event provides attendees with a unique opportunity to network across borders, fields and institution type, while attending panels and sessions on leading issues facing the profession. Year two also includes placement on an AAMC Committee to add another international voice within our leadership base, and to assist in advancing AAMC’s initiatives. The Program will conclude with an International Awardee-led webinar presented to the full AAMC membership on a topic relevant to the Program or a current project of the individual International Awardee.

Follow-up beyond the two years would continue with access to the virtual chat space for current, past and incoming classes, an alumni reception every other year and review of initial Program goals.

Visit the program page to learn more about the program’s components, and to download US Liaison and International Awardee application forms.

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This Program is made possible through major support from the Terra Foundation for American Art. 

The Terra Foundation for American Art is dedicated to fostering exploration, understanding, and enjoyment of the visual arts of the United States for national and international audiences. Recognizing the importance of experiencing original works of art, the foundation provides opportunities for interaction and study, beginning with the presentation and growth of its own art collection in Chicago. To further cross-cultural dialogue on American art, the foundation supports and collaborates on innovative exhibitions, research, and educational programs. Implicit in such activities is the belief that art has the potential to both distinguish cultures and to unite them.