The Gwangju Biennale is taking a new path for its 17th edition in 2028 by selecting its artistic director through an open call, replacing the exhibition's long-standing recommendation-based process.
According to the announcement, the shift is designed to reflect the Biennale's 30-year legacy while widening access to curatorial leadership. Until now, candidates were typically nominated by a small advisory group before the final appointment was made.
The application window opened on June 8 and will remain open until August 3. The call welcomes exhibition professionals and curators from around the world, regardless of nationality, gender, or age. Individual applications are accepted, and teams of two or more co-artistic directors may also apply. Collaborative proposals that bring together domestic and international expertise are especially encouraged.
After the first review in August, shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in September, with the final selection expected in October.
The next edition of the Biennale, set to open in September, is currently led by artist Ho Tzu Nyen, continuing a recent trend of expanding who can shape major exhibition formats. The move signals a more open and globally connected curatorial model that may influence how large-scale art events choose their future leaders.