Writing for Curators

Writing (as well as all manners of production or creation) might be the act of repeatedly practicing “confrontation,” which is always accompanied by a new fear. Rereading and polishing what was carefully written and spoken often results in the impulse to close one's eyes even while holding on to the nodes and joints of each word. I hope to observe and record from a distance what was left behind or what remains and perform this task by habit. Passing through a conclusion requires the strength to revise what happens in the aftermath, the process that lies beyond.  

– Miji Lee (DCW 2022)

Just as visual artists constantly create in a visual language, art curators or critics feel a responsibility to effectively express their observations, feelings, and opinions in writing. When an exhibition curated with a focus on a subject or theme turns into a physical experience, the texts produced must be interpreted by a third party. Forewords, critiques, and reviews have a range of purposes and uses, but all forms of writing share the same allegorical practice that requires interpretation. As someone with relatively little experience in producing diverse forms of writing, this seminar allowed me to share opinions on the preparatory process and goals of writing, not to mention motivating me to continue writing with honesty and dedication. 

– Min Ah Lee (DCW 2022)

Art produces numerous forms of writing including forewords, reviews, critiques, and articles. Finding someone in the art sector with one profession is increasingly difficult, with many working as curators, writers, and critics. As a curator of exhibitions and writer of critiques, I got to reflect on the form of writing and the writer’s attitude. When writing as both a curator and critic, it might be impossible to strictly separate the two. Just as the words "critique" and "curation" can be distinguished, however, so can the writings of critics and curators. Working from a historical and theoretical background while keeping their distance from the work or exhibition concerned, critics must show the value of the subject or find a contemporary landscape through the subject. In comparison, curators’ writing has the freedom to get closer to the subject and escape from predetermined forms and rules. Of course, all forms of writing require extensive observation of the work or subject based on deep attachment and a friendly attitude. But anyone writing about art must understand the characteristics of each writing style, as such methods are as diverse as art forms, and practice writing according to the complex divisions. 

– Minjoo Lee (DCW 2022)