Call for proposals for two special thematic issues:
Curating as Social Justice (10.2) and Online Exhibitions (11.1)

The Journal of Curatorial Studies is planning two issues focusing on themes arising from the current historical climate of intensifying mass protests and widespread pandemic shutdowns. Suggestions for relevant articles, curatorial reflections, and book and exhibition reviews are welcome. Articles are 5-7,000 words, reviews up to 1,250 words.

1. CURATING AS SOCIAL JUSTICE, issue 10.2, Fall 2021

Abstract deadline: November 15, 2020
Article deadline: February 1, 2021

Museums and art institutions are often founded upon progressive ideals, and many engage controversial topics in order to educate audiences about difficult subjects. Yet, is that enough in the age of mass protests against anti-Black racism, police violence, xenophobia, economic disparity, sexual harassment, climate change inaction and other urgent matters? This special issue explores the stakes and roles of curating and exhibitions during the contemporary era of impassioned social justice movements. What is different about this period of emancipatory struggles? What responsibilities do art institutions have to advance social change, raise critical awareness, promote community and empathy, or to exert a positive influence in the world? How can exhibitions constructively align with and support movements such as Black Lives Matter, #MeToo, Idle No More, or Global Climate Strike? The articles, topics and case studies in this issue will examine how a concern for social justice intersects with curatorial methodology, practice, research, knowledge-production and theory.

2. ONLINE EXHIBITIONS, issue 11.1, Spring 2022

Abstract deadline: November 15, 2020
Article deadline: July 1, 2021

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, real-life exhibitions closed throughout the world. Museums, curators, galleries and artists were pressured to adopt alternative virtual strategies as audiences sheltered in place. This special issue examines the upsurge of exhibitions and curatorial activities that flourished in the past year on social media, websites, gaming environments, and other digital arenas. Beyond simply simulating and promoting gallery content, what models exist for online exhibitions as communication forums in their own right? Which strategies, technologies and formats present the most potential for rethinking the nature of exhibitions? How does the shift to virtuality influence the function and politics of institutions? How does online engagement impact audience experience and behavior? What does the shift to the digital portend for the future and social purpose of exhibitions? JCS invites articles and reviews that explore virtual platforms as a means for curatorial practice, display, intervention and knowledge production.

Please send your 250-word abstract, bio and contact information to:
Jim Drobnick, Editor, OCAD University, jimdisplaycult.com
Jennifer Fisher, Editor, York University, jefishyorku.ca

The Journal of Curatorial Studies is an international, peer-reviewed publication that explores the increasing relevance of curating and exhibitions and their impact on institutions, audiences, aesthetics and display culture. Inviting perspectives from visual studies, art history, critical theory, cultural studies and other academic fields, the journal welcomes a diversity of disciplinary approaches on curating and exhibitions broadly defined. By catalyzing debate and serving as a venue for the emerging discipline of curatorial studies, the Journal encourages the development of the theory, practice and history of curating, as well as the analysis of exhibitions and display culture in general.

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