phICA Emerging Curators Initiative

In October, 2015, phICA launched its Emerging Curator Initiative with 8 curators planning 8 exhibitions from concept through de-installation in a re-purposed shipping container on Roosevelt Row in Downtown Phoenix. Season 2 continued this important Initiative which provides actual curatorial experience for young people whose goals include curating art exhibitions as museum curators and as cultural community connectors and leaders. In Season 2, 7 curators organized 6 art exhibitions. Our curators have included recent Art History graduates and current graduate students, community college students, and others from our community who have expressed an interest in gaining curatorial knowledge. In addition to learning about the “nuts and bolts” of curating an exhibition, the curators engage with other curators from Phoenix-area institutions, artists, and large numbers of viewers who attend the Phoenix Third and First Friday events. Season 3 of our Emerging Curator Initiative began in Spring, 2021with fresh exhibitions. Building on the success of our first two seasons which showcased curatorial work by 16 young people, we add to an already impressive track record with new exhibits by individuals who want to gain first-hand experience with curating an art exhibition from beginning to end.

Season 3

Opened June 18, 2021

Season 2

November 18, 2016 – May 14, 2017

Season 1

October 16, 2016 – May 15, 2016