Applications are now open for the Art Exchange: Moving Image Program 2026, an innovative initiative designed to strengthen the practice of early to mid-career visual arts curators from Sub-Saharan Africa. The deadline for submissions is January 18, 2026. This collaborative, cross-cultural program focuses specifically on curators working with moving image as their primary medium, offering them tools to build confidence, foster critical dialogue, and expand their international networks. Supported by the British Council and delivered by Breinstorm Brand Architects and the digital platform IQOQO, the year-long program combines mentorship, skills development, and curatorial experimentation across African and UK contexts.
Up to six curators will be selected to participate in this fully funded opportunity that includes personalized mentorship and professional development workshops. The program features a research trip to the United Kingdom from May 15-25, 2026, where participants will engage with moving image works from the British Council Collection and meet UK-based artists and colleagues. Each selected curator will receive a grant to develop and present a final exhibition in their home country, featuring artworks from both local artists and the British Council Collection. Additionally, participants must deliver a public program or workshop for their local artistic community, ensuring the knowledge spreads beyond the exhibition itself.
The program targets curators from Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and cannot be enrolled in any formal education program, either full-time or part-time. They must demonstrate proficiency in English and have a clear interest in working with moving image art. Candidates must currently hold a valid passport until November 30, 2026, and be available to travel to the UK in May 2026. The program defines curators broadly to include exhibition-makers, producers, programmers, and visual arts practitioners who have organized displays or convenings featuring other artists' work.
Selected participants will join a cohort of six peer curators, creating a valuable network that extends across the continent and internationally. They will work directly with the internationally recognized British Council Collection, gaining hands-on experience with a major public art institution. The online program component provides bespoke mentoring from industry leaders and professional development workshops tailored to each participant's needs. This combination of peer learning, expert guidance, and practical experience builds curatorial confidence and fosters critical dialogue about moving image practices in different cultural contexts. The program specifically addresses the unique challenges of presenting time-based media art in African contexts.
The application process requires three essential documents submitted through an online form. Candidates must provide a current curriculum vitae that details their professional experience and qualifications. They need to submit a curatorial proposal of up to two pages that outlines their vision for a moving image exhibition. Finally, they must include a signed letter of support from their proposed exhibition host venue, demonstrating they have a committed space for their final project. These materials allow the selection committee to assess both the individual's potential and the feasibility of their proposed exhibition. The program is not open to artists themselves, maintaining its focus on curatorial development.
This initiative represents a significant investment in Africa's contemporary art infrastructure, particularly in the under-resourced moving image sector. By providing financial support, international exposure, and professional validation, the program empowers curators to take risks and experiment with ambitious projects. The emphasis on local presentation ensures that benefits flow directly back to African communities, while the UK connection provides global context and resources. Interested candidates can find the application link and additional information on the official Art Exchange: Moving Image website. With applications due January 18, 2026, prospective participants should begin preparing their materials now to meet this competitive opportunity.
