“2026 Changwon Sculpture Biennale Announces Open Call for Artistic Director” Poster / Changwon Cultural Foundation

The 2026 Changwon Sculpture Biennale, celebrating its 8th edition, has announced an international open call for its next Artistic Director, with applications accepted via email from July 14 to 27, 2025.
 
Hosted by the City of Changwon and organized by the Changwon Cultural Foundation, the Changwon Sculpture Biennale is South Korea’s only international biennale dedicated to sculpture. Since its inception in 2012, it has been held biennially to honor and reinterpret the artistic legacy of world-renowned sculptors Moon Shin and Kim Chong Yung, both native to Changwon. The 2026 edition will take place from September to November, with exhibitions centered around major venues such as Sungsan Art Hall and other cultural sites throughout the city.

An outdoor sculpture by Moon Shin (1922–1995). As one of the first-generation sculptors of Korean modernism, Moon Shin was recognized in Europe—especially in France, where he was primarily active—as a pioneer of symmetrical abstract sculpture.

Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of contemporary art and possess the curatorial capacity to propose and realize an exhibition aligned with the vision and theme of the 2026 Changwon Sculpture Biennale. Preference will be given to those with experience in directing or organizing exhibitions of a similar scale, both in Korea and abroad. In addition, the role requires the ability to plan and manage related academic programs and public events in collaboration with the organizing team.


Legend (1958), a work by Kim Chong Yung (1915–1982), a pioneer of Korean abstract sculpture. / Collection of the Kim Chong Yung Museum

Ideal candidates will combine a deep sensitivity to the local context with a robust international network. Applicants must propose a vision that contributes to the sustainable development of the regional art and cultural ecosystem. For international applicants, residency in Changwon for a designated period may be required to ensure smooth execution of duties.

The biennale will include not only the main exhibition but also a variety of academic programs, satellite events, and a Pre-Biennale exhibition, which will be planned in collaboration with the selected artistic director.
 
The Changwon Sculpture Biennale has established itself as a platform for experimental exhibitions that reflect both the expanded field of sculpture and its social dimensions. This open call marks a significant step toward strengthening the global presence of Korean sculpture and proposing a new standard for sculpture biennales in Asia.