Chisenhale Gallery Launches 2025 Curatorial Fellowship Open Call for Early Curators

Chisenhale Gallery in London, in partnership with Asymmetry, announces an open call for the 2025 Asymmetry Curatorial Research Fellowship. This fellowship, aimed at early-career curators with an interest in contemporary art and curatorial practices, offers a unique opportunity for hands-on experience at one of London’s most esteemed contemporary art institutions. The program runs for 18 months, from March 31, 2025, to September 25, 2026, and provides a platform for curators to develop their skills while supporting Chisenhale Gallery’s internationally acclaimed commissions and newly launched Chisenhale Books publishing initiative.

Key Components of the Fellowship

The selected Fellow will engage deeply with various aspects of curatorial work, including exhibition organization, artist liaison, and project-based research. They will work directly with Chisenhale’s curatorial team, helping to shape exhibitions, events, and publications. This fellowship also includes contributing to public programming, production support, and editorial work, alongside maintaining critical conversations that align with the gallery’s mission to foster diverse and meaningful engagement with its artists and audiences.

Additionally, the fellow will gain access to Chisenhale Gallery’s extensive exhibitions archive, allowing for in-depth research into the gallery’s past exhibitions and critical examination of its future archival practices. The fellow’s input will help shape how Chisenhale preserves and presents its rich curatorial legacy.

Expanding Research and Independent Projects

The fellowship also enables the recipient to further their independent research, particularly around Chinese and Sinophone cultures. One day per week for six months, the fellow will collaborate with Asymmetry’s curatorial network to develop a personal research project or independent public program. This additional space for independent thought encourages curators to expand their research and practice while benefiting from peer exchange and mentoring within Asymmetry’s network.

For those based outside of London, accommodation at the Delfina Foundation will be provided during the first two months of the fellowship. This integration into Delfina Foundation’s internationally recognized residency program offers the fellow further professional development opportunities and access to a peer-to-peer exchange with other practitioners.

Eligibility and Application Process

The fellowship is open to curators who identify, to any extent, with Chinese and Sinophone cultures and identities, whether they are based regionally or internationally. The fellow will benefit from Chisenhale’s established creative network, participating in studio visits and building relationships with artists such as Lotus L. Kang, Benoît Piéron, Alia Farid, and Simnikiwe Buhlungu. The curatorial team at Chisenhale is committed to fostering a supportive environment for pastoral care and professional growth, ensuring the fellow receives a well-rounded experience that balances both critical and practical skills.

Applications must be submitted by November 3, 2024, and should include the following:

•Completed Application Form (available on the Asymmetry website)

•Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing curatorial projects, residencies, publications, awards, and public programming (such as symposia, conferences, or talks)

•A Cover Letter (500 words) outlining the applicant’s curatorial interests, research in contemporary art, and how these align with their motivation to undertake the fellowship

Applications should be sent via email to fellowship[at]asymmetryart.org, and files must not exceed 10MB in total size. The application and all supporting materials should be in English.

Asymmetry and Chisenhale Gallery: Nurturing Curatorial Excellence

Asymmetry, an independent non-profit organization based in London, has been a pioneer in promoting curatorial practices related to Chinese and Sinophone contemporary art. Founded with the goal of fostering curatorial knowledge and practice, Asymmetry supports emerging and established curators, facilitating research, collaboration, and production across the art world. This partnership with Chisenhale Gallery has already produced successful fellows, who have contributed significantly to contemporary curatorial discourse.

Founded in 1983, Chisenhale Gallery is known for its commitment to commissioning and producing new works from contemporary artists. The gallery has a long-standing reputation for supporting artists at pivotal moments in their careers, contributing to the global art conversation with innovative exhibitions and public programs. The gallery’s recent launch of Chisenhale Books further amplifies its role in contemporary art, offering artists and curators a new medium to present their work and ideas.

The Importance of the Fellowship

The 2025 Asymmetry Curatorial Research Fellowship is an extraordinary opportunity for an early-career curator to immerse themselves in the heart of London’s art world. By working alongside the gallery’s curatorial team, the fellow will gain practical experience while contributing to significant projects and exhibitions. With an international focus and an inclusive approach to curatorial practice, this fellowship aims to shape the next generation of curators, equipping them with the tools to navigate and contribute to a rapidly evolving art landscape.

For More Information

To learn more about the fellowship, download the application form, or inquire about previous fellows, please visit the Asymmetry website. The deadline to apply is November 3, 2024.