Um projecto curatorial= A curatorial project : Elaborating "guidelines" for young independent curators, based on experience gained from the "Heimweh/Saudade" exhibition at Plataforma Revolver, Lisbon, Portugal

Abstract

This MA thesis describes the work of Alda Veronica Galsterer as an independent curator working in Portugal, specifically mapping her first exhibition from conception to organization and through to production. Titled “Heimweh/Saudade. Young German and Portuguese artists looking for a new dialectic between Heimweh and Saudade”, her first show was held at the off-space Plataforma Revólver (September 24th - November 7th, 2009). Drawing upon her own experience, the author seeks to develop useful guidelines for other young independent curators. First introduced to the idea and concept behind the exhibition, the reader will then be familiarized with the path towards achieving the ultimate goal of opening the exhibition – including essential steps along the way, such as production, fundraising and finance, insurance, transport, text writing, installation, etc. The reader will learn about parallel activities implemented by the curator to dynamize the exhibition: guided tours, a catalogue launch and a panel discussion, chaired by the curator herself. A chapter dedicated to the critique of this exhibition, aims to familiarize the reader with the expectations of all those involved in the project and how these expectations were met. The conclusion of this thesis offers detailed guidelines for young independent curators at the beginning of their career.