Emerging Curator Award 2027
Backwater Artists Group is seeking submissions from emerging curators for the Emerging Curators Award 2027. This initiative will support an emerging curator to develop their curatorial practice and gain experience in all aspects of exhibition production. The successful candidate will work with Backwater Artists Group’s team to produce a members group exhibition or project for the Studio 12 exhibition/project space, as part of the artistic programme for 2027. The curator will receive a curator’s fee and a production budget for the exhibition/project. A 4-week slot will be made available for the project/exhibition in 2027.
Who can apply
Open to emerging curators and recent graduates keen to develop their curatorial practice, including international applicants.
How to Apply
Applicants are asked to send a PDF with the following required submission information:
Curatorial CV
Exhibition proposal outlining concept and curatorial framework. (500 words max). Please note: This could involve the curator shortlisting a number of artists from our website. However, there is also no need to identify a shortlist of artists at this stage.
Biography
Images of previous curatorial projects showcasing use of space and how exhibition-making practice
Proposals are to be submitted directly to elaine@backwaterartists.ie
Please use Emerging Curator Award in the subject line.
Deadline
Tuesday 20th January 2026
What we provide
• We aim to provide the following fees and exhibition support through the award. Please note, these amounts are subject to funding. We will review once confirmation is received and consult with the successful awardee before proceeding.
• €2,000 Curator fee (to include an initial studio visit to meet a shortlisted selection of artists and an engagement event, which could be an in-conversation with the artist or take the form of some other public event that fits with the exhibition.
• Exhibition production fee (Amount TBC)
• €1,000 Mentorship from an established curator who you would like to work with
• €500 Travel and Accommodation fee
Also included
• Technical install support
• Marketing & PR support
• Admin support
• Artists Fees will be paid to participating artists
• The project/exhibition will be photographed by a professional photographer.
• An exhibition text will also be commissioned.
For further details please email elaine@backwaterartists.ie
About Backwater Artists Group
Backwater Artists Group is one of the largest and longest-established artist-led initiatives in Ireland. Established in 1990 by artists for artists, we are a thriving community of 110+ visual artists.
Located in the heart of Cork city, on Wandesford Quay, we provide high quality affordable studios space, with security of tenure and access to facilities for professional visual artists. Through a bespoke programme of tailored supports, we ensure that artists have access to a high level of professional development opportunities, mentorship, exhibition opportunities, guidance and advice, which support them in creating sustainable practices and careers.
We support the next generation of artists by awarding bursary, mentorship and exhibition opportunities to recent graduates.
We share what we do with large and diverse audiences, across the city and beyond, through our Exhibition & Engagement Programme.
Our Backwater Artists Network provides support and opportunities for artists working outside of the complex, to engage with our community and avail of the support necessary for the development of a professional art practice.