About the network
Networks are open structures, able to expand without limits, integrating new nodes as long as they are able to communicate within the network, namely as long as they share the same communication codes (for example values or performances goals). A network-based social structure is a highly dynamic, open system, susceptible to innovating without threatening its balance.
(Manuel Castells, The Rise of the Network Society, 1996)
Each point in a distributed network is neither a central hub nor a satellite node - the are neither trunks nor leaves. The network contains nothing but "intelligent end-point systems that are self deterministic, allowing each end-point system to communicate with any host it chooses". Like the rhizome, each node in a dsitribuuted network may establish direct communication with another node, without having to appeal to a hierachical intermediary. Yet, in order to initiate communication, the two nodes must speak the same language. This is why protocol is important. Shared protocols are what defines the landscape of the network - who is connected to whom.
(Alexander Galloway, Protocol, MIT Press 2004)
The
Curatorial Network is dedicated to development of curatorial practice through critical debate, collaborations and exchange. It explores the metaphor of ‘network’ in relation to curating to discuss properties, complexities and dynamics of curatorial networks and collaborations.
The
Curatorial Network was initiated in the South West region of England to provide professional development opportunities, facilitate the sharing of skills and offer ongoing peer support. It involves curators working in the visual arts and museum sectors to develop international networks and advance collaborative working practice regionally, trans-nationally and internationally.
The
Curatorial Network is currently running two-year programme of activities including
international curatorial research residencies with partner host organisations in SW,
public seminars on curating as part of curatorial residencies,
international visits for curators based in the South West and the website. For more information on the forthcoming events and how to participate go to
Programme.
The
Curatorial Network website is on online portal for curators and is currently in development. It documents the activities of the residencies, seminars and visits, and provides information and a calendar of visual arts events in the region. It is offered as a tool for communication, discussion and networking, as well as will eventually hold an extensive resource for curators. You can contribute through the
discussion forum and joining the mail list and
sending us material for the resources section.
