Council is delighted to announce Daniel Press as the Northern Beaches Emerging Curator for 2024. Press has been selected to develop and produce a funded exhibition at Curl Curl Creative Space with support from Manly Art Gallery & Museum (MAG&M).

The Emerging Curator Program, building on its successful 2023 debut, provides early-career curators with professional mentoring, a platform to develop their practice, and opportunities to expand their networks.

Press, a sculptor and curator known for his innovative approach to sculpture and commitment to uncovering emerging trends in Australian contemporary art, will develop MASS, an ambitious exhibition at Curl Curl Creative Space in September 2024.

Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins said Council continues to invest in the creative sector and enhancing the richness of our community.

“Curators play a pivotal role in shaping our cultural landscape, and the Emerging Curator Program is designed to provide vital support to their careers. 

“Daniel Press's innovative approach to sculpture and his dedication to discovering emerging trends in the art world make him an ideal candidate for this year's program.

“His commitment to environmental activism and his dedication to elevating the voices of female artists will make MASS a timely and impactful project. We look forward to seeing how this exhibition sparks dialogue and fosters connections within our community."

MASS promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of ecofeminist principles, responding to the pressing realities of our climate crisis. The exhibition will showcase collaborative works from eight female-identifying artists, delving into themes of ecofeminism, transformation, and place-making.

In addition to the exhibition, MASS will feature a dynamic Public Program, including a creative trail walk, a drawing workshop, video resources, and a curatorial essay.

Press, with a recent PhD from UNSW Art & Design, brings a wealth of experience, including co-founding DRAW Space Gallery. As the selected curator, he will receive $4,350 towards a curator's fee and project funding, along with mentorship from MAG&M curators.

Stay tuned for updates on MASS and its public program.

For more information, please visit the website.