Emerging Curator Program 2026

⁠⁠⁠The Emerging Curator Program (ECP) funds an early-practice curator to produce and curate a group exhibition at Curl Curl Creative Space with support from Council’s arts specialists and mentorship from the curators at Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

The program is designed for emerging curators looking to develop their practice, gain knowledge of the arts sector, and grow their professional networks.

The mentorship includes support in:

• concept development and research
• artist liaison and selection
• exhibition design
• exhibition writing/essays
• development of exhibition materials (i.e., wall labels and catalogue/room sheet)
• budget and administration management

If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply for the 2026 program.

The recipient receives:

• $2,000 Curator’s fee
• $3,000 Artist fee
• $850 Exhibition materials fee

Key dates:

• Mon 16 March 2026: Applications Open
• Sun 12 April 2026: Applications Close
• Mon 27 April 2026: Applicants notified
• May – Sep 2026: Exhibition development & mentorship sessions
• Mon 28 Sep – Sun 11 Oct 2026: Exhibition outcome

Apply Now

Please read the Guidelines below before  you begin your applications.

Guidelines

Emerging Curator - 2026 - Guidelines.pdf

View all previous recipients.

Further Opportunities

For more information about other creative opportunities with Northern Beaches Council, sign up to our monthly creative newsletter, or contact us about booking one of our creative spaces.