The Finnish Light Art Society FLASH is looking for a curator for the fifth edition of the Light Art Biennial. The Light Art Biennial is part of Oulu Capital of Culture year in November 2026.
Finnish Light Art Society FLASH is seeking a curator or curatorial team for the fifth Light Art Biennial, taking place in Oulu from November 6–22, 2026.
We are looking for a strong vision in light art. Previous experience in light art or curating is beneficial but not mandatory. The society offers guidance and mentoring if needed.
About the Biennial
Light Art Biennial is part of the Finnish Light Art Society FLASH´s program for Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture, exploring the uniqueness of northern light and darkness and their historical and cultural connections. The curator will shape the biennial’s artistic direction and select artworks through an open call and by invitation. The final number of artworks depends on funding, available spaces, and the curatorial concept.
Curator Responsibilities
• Develops the exhibition concept
• Participates in selecting exhibition venues and artists
• Acts as an expert in the parallel Art of Darkness project
• Introduces herself/himself/themselves at a light art seminar in Oulu (May 23, 2025)
• Collaborates with artists and producers throughout the project
Schedule
• Open call: April 11 – May 4, 2025
• Selection: May 2025
• Planning begins: May 2025
• Exhibition installation: October–November 2026
• Light Art Biennial open to the public: November 6–22, 2026
Compensation
The curator will receive a fee based on the final budget (confirmed during 2025). Applicants may include a minimum fee request in their application. Teams share the fee among themselves.
Application Instructions
Send your application as one PDF file by May 4. 2025, at 23:59 to opencall@valotaiteenseura.fi. Email subject line: FLASH5 curator / your name
Please include:
• Contact information
• Brief exhibition concept/theme
• (Optional) examples of artworks or artists
• Brief introduction and experience CV or CVs (max 2 pages)
• (Optional) minimum fee request
Applications may be submitted in Finnish, Swedish, or English. Late submissions will not be considered.
More information: www.valotaiteenseura.fi or opencall@valotaiteenseura.fi
We warmly welcome your application to become the curator of the fifth Light Art Biennial!
