MA in Curatorial Practice at the Iceland University of the Arts

The International Master Programme in Curatorial Practice (taught in English) at the Iceland University of the Arts places an emphasis on curation as an expanded, pluralistic and interdisciplinary practice and field of research with a view to strengthen insight and understanding of its complexities and potentials.

Learning together is a key theme in the studies; we focus attention on collaboration and knowledge sharing in conversation with academic staff and guest lecturers. You will work individually and in tandem with your co-students to create and curate exhibition projects in public venues, while also having the opportunity to pursue internships in museums and other art spaces. Working alongside experts in the field you will engage in critical debates and dialogues that may bring out both shared and different perspectives on curation.

The International Master Programme in Curatorial Practice (taught in English) at the Iceland University of the Arts places an emphasis on curation as an expanded, pluralistic and interdisciplinary practice and field of research with a view to strengthen insight and understanding of its complexities and potentials.

Learning together is a key theme in the studies; we focus attention on collaboration and knowledge sharing in conversation with academic staff and guest lecturers. You will work individually and in tandem with your co-students to create and curate exhibition projects in public venues, while also having the opportunity to pursue internships in museums and other art spaces. Working alongside experts in the field you will engage in critical debates and dialogues that may bring out both shared and different perspectives on curation.

Contact hannastyrmis@lhi.is

Application Process

IUA employs a standard electronic application form.

The application process is in two steps, first submit the application and then pay the application fee. Please note: It is possible to save the application while working on it.

The Application

An application is not valid until the applicant has submitted the application and paid the application fee. Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Certified copy of degree certificate(s) and programme / course transcript(s) (PDF)

Applicants should submit a detailed record of higher education up to the present, including programmes of study taken and grades achieved. This may be submitted in Icelandic or English.

2. References from two referees (PDF)

Applicants add two referees (names and emails), one academic reference and one professional reference, in the application form. When applicants have submitted the application, the referees will receive an email from the IUA asking them to submit a reference for the applicant.

Applicants will receive a confirmation when the referees have submitted the reference.

3. Statement (PDF)

Letter of Motivation

Applicants for the Master Programme in Curatorial Practice must write a short letter of motivation, where they explain their decision to apply for this specific programme and address how the focus of the programme ties in with their aims towards a future professional role as a curator. The Letter of Motivation can be viewed as a short introduction to the statement of study.

The Letter of Motivation should be written in English. Maximum length one A4 page.

4. Research proposal (PDF)

Statement of Study

The statement of study should indicate each applicant’s interests and intended self-direction in relation to curatorial practice.

It should outline practical and conceptual concerns that are of interest to the applicant, and  outline the intended focal point of interest within an MA Curatorial Practice studies.

The focal point should highlight plans for future study and research, rather than end results or outcomes allowing space for research, growth and learning. This can take the form of a proposal for a curatorial project, but can also be put forward in a more informal introduction to an area of interest.

The statement should be written in English. Maximum two A4 pages.

5. Curriculum Vitae (PDF)

Applicants must submit a CV of relevant education and professional experience, language proficiency and general information about the applicant. The CV should be written in English.

6. Portfolio of works (PDF/URL)

Applicants for the Master Programme in Curatorial Practice must gather prime examples of their projects, texts, and/or works into a digital portfolio, which they submit with their formal application.

This can include a PDF document or links to external websites, videos, texts, audio, images etc.

The submitted work should reflect the applicant’s character, shed light on main interests, demonstrate skills and competences, and make it accessible to comprehensively read the applicants ability for original creation and communication of ideas.

Accompanying the external links should be a short synopsis or description.

Admission Process

A specially appointed admission committee assesses the submitted applications from documentation provided.

If the applicant is considered for acceptance, they will be called for an interview. The interview will be held in English and can take place via skype.

After the interview process the application committee will make their final selection.

The admission committee looks especially for the applicant’s ability to present their ideas and to discuss themes and subjects related to curatorial practice; originality in subject matter; a grounded understanding of the context available in the professional field and a creative and professional vision.

Furthermore, the committee will evaluate the applicant’s ability to take initiative and work independently, their creativity, ability to collaborate, and whether the applicant possesses independent and critical thinking.

Admission Requirements

Applicants will have completed BA/BS Degree or equivalent and it is desirable that they have acquired work experience in the field of contemporary artforms.

Applicants that do not fulfil the above requirement can be admitted to the programme provided that they demonstrate an understanding and/or relevant experience relating to the field of curatorial practice.

It is an advantage for applicants to have had some time to work within the context of art after completing their BA/BS degree.

Language Requirements

The Master Programme in Fine Art is an international programme conducted in English.

Students must be proficient in spoken and written English in the academic context. If there is doubt concerning language skills, applicants may be required to submit evidence of English proficiency.