The Gwangju Biennale Foundation has announced an open call for applications for the artistic director of its 17th edition, scheduled for 2028. This marks the first time since the biennale's founding in 1995 that the position will be filled through an open process rather than direct appointment, inviting proposals from individual curators and curatorial teams globally. The application period runs from June 8 to August 3, with the appointment expected in October.
This shift to an open call represents a significant move toward greater transparency and inclusivity in the selection of leadership for one of Asia's most prominent biennials. By democratizing the process, the foundation aims to preserve the spirit of Gwangju and its 30-year history while adapting to contemporary expectations for institutional openness. The change could set a precedent for other major art events reconsidering their governance structures.