Since 2004, the School for Curatorial Studies in Venice has been a dynamic center for experimentation and interdisciplinary dialogue. Our mission is to equip a new generation of art professionals with the critical and practical tools to thrive in the contemporary art world.

We offer a deep dive into contemporary curatorial theory, hands-on practice, and modern museology. Our programs are designed for passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds—including graduates, emerging professionals, and dedicated art enthusiasts—who are eager to expand their knowledge and refine their skills.

Our unique Venitian context: the school is deeply integrated into the fabric of Venice’s art scene. We leverage our connections with major institutions—including the Venice Biennale, foundational museums, and historic pavilions—to provide students with privileged access and on-the-ground learning experiences that are simply impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Guided by a distinguished faculty of international curators, scholars, and art critics, our students don’t just learn about art; they learn how to shape its future.

Program
Summer Course in Curatorial Practice and art Management – Venice 2026

An Intensive Program within the Ecosystem of the Venice Biennale

Immerse yourself in the heart of the contemporary art world. Our English-taught Summer Course in Curatorial Practice and art Management is a rigorous program that blends critical theory with hands-on experience, set against the dynamic backdrop of the Venice Biennale. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of contemporary visual arts and the multifaceted role of the curator.

Program Overview

This intensive program explores the history of contemporary visual arts and the practice of exhibition-making. Through a curriculum of interdisciplinary lectures, workshops, and site visits, you will gain practical training directly within the vibrant museum and exhibition landscape of Venice. The course is taught by an international faculty of renowned curators, artists, critics, and museum professionals.

The curriculum is meticulously designed to deconstruct the intellectual and technical tasks of the curator, covering a wide range of topics from the History of Exhibitions to the practicalities of Exhibition Management. The program culminates in the collective realization of a public exhibition or art event, putting theory into practice.

Key Features & Learning Outcomes
Learn from the Masters: Engage with a distinguished international faculty.

Venice as Your Classroom: Gain insider access through studio visits, tours of Biennale pavilions, and networking events.

A Balanced Curriculum: Seamlessly integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

Build a Professional Network: Connect with a global cohort of peers and leading practitioners.

Launch Your Curatorial Project: Conceive, develop, and execute a full-scale exhibition.

Curriculum & Didactic Modules
The program is divided into three immersive modules, each building upon the last to provide a complete curatorial education. 

Module 1: Foundations & Theory (8th June – 7th August 2026)
350 Contact Hours

This foundational module provides the theoretical backbone and essential practical skills for contemporary curatorship. Lectures are complemented by visits to artist studios and key venues across Venice, offering real-world case studies during the Biennale.

Core Subjects Include:
History of Curatorial Practices and Contemporary Art

Aesthetics and Cultural Theory

Exhibition Design

Curating Exhibitions

Fine Arts Management

Cultural Events Management & Organization

Fundraising and Marketing

Communication Strategies & Promotion

New Media and Digital Technologies

Practical Workshops Focus On:
Critical Writing & Art Criticism

Drafting Press Releases and Project Proposals

Publication and Catalogue Design

Gallery & Exhibition Training

*Optional European Study Trip: 9th – 13th August 2026*

Module 2: Project Development (17th – 21st August 2026)This module is dedicated to intensive project development. Students will focus on the practical duties of curating, including:
Artist coordination and relations

Logistics management (transportation, insurance)

Development and curation of promotional materials

Finalizing the concept and plan for the final exhibition.

Module 3: Production & Realization (24th August – 1st September 2026)The course culminates in the production of a public art event. In this final, hands-on module, students will:

Coordinate the arrival and installation of artworks.

Manage all aspects of the event, from promotion to the opening reception.

Learn to professionally document the exhibition for their portfolios.

Program Details & Structure
Duration: 450 contact hours, plus approximately 200 hours of independent study and project work.

Schedule: Monday to Friday. Theoretical lectures are held in the mornings (9:30 AM – 1:30 PM). Afternoons (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM) are dedicated to seminars, workshops, and guided visits across Venice.

Collaborative Learning: Participants will develop their projects in close collaboration with the course director and a network of international guests, including artists, curators, architects, and publishers.

Start Date: June 8th, 2026.

Program Fee: €6,400.00 for the complete three-module program.Download the detailed program for the Summer School for Curatorial Studies Venice 2026 :Summer School for Curatorial Studies Venice 2026

How to Apply
Application Deadline & Procedure

The application deadline is March 1st, 2026.

Places in the Summer School are limited and competitive. To apply, please submit the following documents before the deadline:

A completed Application Form (download links below).

Your current Curriculum Vitae (CV).

A personal statement (approx. 300-500 words) outlining your motivation for applying.

Download the Application Form:Application-form /Application-form wordSubmit your complete application package via email or post to: 

Email: aurora@curatorialstudiesvenies.org
Tel: +39 041 2770466School for Curatorial Studies Venice
San Marco 3073, 30124 Venice, Italy