Eighteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

This study examines the potential of curatorial activism as a reflective approach to advancing ecological thinking in India in the expanding field of practice-based research. The aim of the research is to understand and produce an understanding of the role of curators in growing audience engagement in various on-site and off-site events. This research applies Reilly’s curatorial activism to artistic projects addressing ecological issues to provide a realistic overview of institutional change and emphasize how the role of the curator can create a social impact and communicate climate change issues to a wider audience. This research follows a multimethodological drawing on art and curatorial research, with new museology studies methodologically being a qualitative multi-case study that endeavours to produce a rich, original, and practice-based inquiry by organizing an exhibition and a discursive event in collaboration with artists and institutions. The thematically curated event yields data to help the audience engage with activist artwork. The empirical investigation includes PCI interviews with experts as well as observation of visitor behaviour, mapping of visitor reactions, duration of visits, interaction, and movement patterns. This will provide in-depth insight into the effectiveness of curatorial strategies through dialogue on the development and future of curatorial activism and its ethical responsibility toward the ecological crisis. Using these techniques, it will be possible to determine existing patterns, the influence of activist movements on change, and the connection between institutional frameworks and art activism.