Curatorial Opportunity

Free 7‑Day Exhibition at CasildART Contemporary

At CasildART, we believe in creating space: space to experiment, to be seen, and to tell stories that rarely get the platform they deserve.

CasildART Contemporary was founded to champion artists of African and Caribbean heritage, but our commitment to equity and representation extends beyond identity alone. We recognise there are many UK‑based artists, collectives and independent curators whose ideas and practices remain underserved or those who want to experiment, take risks, and bring fresh perspectives into the gallery space. This curatorial opportunity is an invitation to submit your curatorial idea for the chance to host a free 7‑day exhibition in our Marble Arch gallery with a focus on groundbreaking ideas that rethink materiality, storytelling, form, identity or the purpose of art.

 

What we’re looking for 

New perspectives: Ideas that shift how we see or understand materiality, form, or process. 

Innovative storytelling: Unusual narrative structures, ways of engaging audiences, or re-framing histories.

Challenging concepts: Work that questions assumptions about art, value, authorship, or display.

Underexplored ideas: Practices, voices, and approaches that rarely get space in mainstream institutions. 

Your project does not need to be about Blackness or diaspora. We champion underrepresented voices and underexplored ideas, wherever they come from

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Who can apply

  • Curators
  • Artist‑curators
  • Collectives
  • Nomadic galleries
  • Early and mid‑career practitioners
  • UK‑based applicants only

What you receive

  • Free 7‑day exhibition at CasildART Contemporary (Marble Arch, London)
  • Curatorial and production support
  • Marketing and promotional coverage across CasildART channels
  • A central London platform to test, develop or showcase new ideas

Donation

  • We are asking for a small donation of £57 (per application) to enter this competition for the chance to host your exhibition in our gallery, free of charge. We will aslo take a small commission of 15% on the gross sales of purchased artworks.

  • This contribution supports CasildART Contemporary as a Black‑led not‑for‑profit gallery committed to cultural equity, experimentation and access. It helps us keep opportunities open, fair and sustainable.

How to apply

Submit your proposal via the application form

You’ll be asked for:

Curatorial idea: 300–500 words
Artist(s) involved: if applicable
Visuals or references: optional but encouraged
Short bio or CV
Preferred dates: if relevant

Key dates
Deadline: 31 July 2026 / Selected curator notified: 31 August 2026

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Frequently asked questions

Do proposals need to be about Blackness or diaspora?
No. We welcome any idea that is bold, original and aligned with our commitment to underrepresented voices and ideas.

Can I apply as an artist‑curator or collective?
Yes. Artist‑curators, collectives and nomadic galleries are encouraged to apply.

Is the £57 fee refundable?
No. It supports our not‑for‑profit model and helps keep opportunities accessible.

Do I need a fully resolved exhibition plan?
No. We welcome proposals at different stages of development.

Can students apply?
Yes. MA/MFA and other students are eligible.

Be Part of Our Mission to Amplify Black Voices in Art

Your support helps CasildART shine a light on underrepresented stories, create powerful exhibitions, nurture emerging Black artists, and build deeper connections within our communities. Together, we can ensure there will always be a home for contemporary Black art.