Call for Applications: Curatorial Research Programme (Denmark)

The Danish Arts Foundation Curatorial Research Programme offers funding for curators, art critics, directors, and art professionals to conduct research trips focused on contemporary art. Grants cover travel and accommodation costs up to DKK 15,000 per person, enabling participants to engage with Danish art institutions, artists, and exhibitions. The program promotes international collaboration, sustainable travel, and the development of curatorial expertise.

Overview

The Curatorial Research Programme provides targeted funding for art professionals to conduct research trips in Denmark. The initiative supports curators, art critics, exhibition directors, and art mediators working with contemporary art. Funding helps cover travel and accommodation costs while fostering engagement with Danish artists, galleries, and institutions.

Why It Matters

Promotes international collaboration and exchange in the contemporary art sector.
Supports the professional development of curators and art professionals.
Encourages sustainable and independent research planning.
Strengthens connections with Danish art institutions and artists, contributing to global curatorial knowledge.

Who Is Eligible?

Curators, exhibition directors, art critics, and art mediators.
Professionals working with contemporary art.
Danish institutions may apply on behalf of foreign curators.
Applicants must have existing contacts in the Danish art scene or a planned project with specific artists or institutions.
Individuals must independently organize meetings and studio visits during the research trip.

Grant Details

Maximum funding: DKK 15,000 per person.
Eligible expenses: travel and accommodation only.
Ineligible expenses: per diems, participation in openings or conferences, visa fees, local short-distance transport, and travel related to pre-programmed exhibitions.
Research trips typically last 3–7 days.
Travel must be booked in economy class.

How to Apply / How It Works

Register via the Grant Portal – Ensure bank account details, registration name, and all form information are accurate.
Prepare Required Annexes – Submit:
- Goals and day programme of the research trip.
- Budget detailing travel and accommodation costs.
- CV highlighting 10 key points of curatorial practice.
- Official form for international bank transfers (if applicable).
Submit Application – Applications can be edited until the deadline, but only the latest version is evaluated.
Evaluation and Decision – Decisions are communicated within 12 weeks. Grant awards are published on the foundation’s website after notification.
Trip Execution – Organize meetings, studio visits, and research independently while following sustainability and environmental considerations.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Ensure all submitted bank and personal details match exactly to avoid payment delays.
Avoid including ineligible expenses such as per diems or local transport.
Plan sustainable travel options to align with the foundation’s recommendations.
Submit complete annexes and follow the required templates.
Foreign applicants must include the international bank transfer form for timely funding.

FAQ

1. Who can apply for the Curatorial Research Programme? Curators, exhibition directors, art critics, and art mediators working with contemporary art. Danish institutions can apply on behalf of foreign curators.
2. What expenses are covered by the grant? Travel and accommodation costs only, up to DKK 15,000 per person.
3. How long should the research trip last? Typically between 3–7 days.
4. Are per diems or conference fees included? No, these are not eligible expenses.
5. How are decisions communicated? Decisions are made within 12 weeks of the application deadline.
6. Can applications be updated after submission? Yes, but only the latest version before the deadline will be assessed.
7. Is sustainability considered in trip planning? Yes, environmentally considerate transport choices are encouraged.

Conclusion

The Curatorial Research Programme by the Danish Arts Foundation provides essential support for curators and art professionals to engage deeply with contemporary Danish art. By funding travel and accommodation for research trips, the program fosters professional growth, strengthens international art networks, and promotes sustainable, independent curatorial research.