Course description
This course formerly ran under the title “Introduction to Curating”
This course provides an immersive encounter with curatorial practice as it exists in today’s art world with an emphasis on curating Contemporary art.
In addition to learning exactly what goes into the curation of a top-tier exhibit, students will develop an understanding of how curating works by looking back at its history, examining case studies, and hearing from exceptional guest speakers in the field.
Through thoughtful analysis of what successful curating looks like, students will develop the skills needed to navigate the profession, from understanding the roles of the curator to planning an exhibition. Introduction to Curating also discusses the day-to-day responsibilities of a curator and examines how a curator builds a museum-quality collection. Fundamental curatorial skills, including writing effective proposals and developing comprehensive exhibition plans, will be presented. Finally, students will explore the ways in which the field is changing and examine increasingly diverse approaches to exhibition-making such as curating in the digital realm.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
For successfully completing this course, you receive a verified Certificate of Completion from Sotheby’s Institute of Art as well as 14 IACET Continuing Education Units. *
Our digital certificates allow you to share new skills with various social media platforms, including LinkedIn. Successful completion is defined by each instructor in the course syllabus and consists, at the least, of regular, thoughtful participation in online activities and timely submission of assigned papers or projects.
*As an IACET Accredited Provider, Sotheby’s Institute of Art offers IACET CEUs for its learning events that comply with the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Standard.
Training Course Content
Week 1: Uncover the history and origins of curatorial practices.
Week 2: Understand the roles and responsibilities of a curator.
Week 3: Learn about exhibition planning and curatorial proposals.
Week 4: Explore methods for acquisition and collection management.
Week 5: Understand how to curate for specific audiences.
Week 6: Examine curation of performance arts and new media arts.
Week 7: Explore curating practices for fashion and luxury goods.
Week 8: Discuss the future of curating with attention to emerging digital practices and social awareness.
Course delivery details
Award-winning online course
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Sotheby's Institute of Art
Sotheby’s auction house was founded in 1744 when Samuel Baker, an entrepreneur, occasional publisher, and successful businessman held his first auction. Today at Sotheby’s Institute, we emphasize a keen understanding of an object’s value and history, a spirit of inquiry...