CAS Conference: On Radicalism (1 May 2025)

On this day, we will question what it means to be radical within the framework of art museums and curatorial practice. We will examine structures and ideologies embodied in cultural institutions and art collections, their narratives and politics of representation, while bringing to the fore strategies to reshape and transform them. We are delighted to welcome wonderful speakers, who, through different entry points, will address their perspectives on radicalism. Sharon Heal, Director of the Museums Association, will address the radical projects by museums across the UK, as outlined in the 'Radical Museums' podcast. Writer, Researcher and Curator Dr. Clare Carolin, King's College London, will present her research on museum archives as sites of radicalism that hold hidden or forgotten truths which, once uncovered, open up new realities and other potentialities for necessary change. Additionally, Katya García-Antón, an independent writer, curator, researcher and cultural manager will address insights from her research on Sámi contemporary art and the Arctic, and will discuss her ideas on practicing resistance. Helen Legg, Director of Tate Liverpool, will talk about the 13-year custodianship of a work by Maya-Kaqchikel artist Edgar Calel, which, in alignment with a sacred Mayan cycle, will end with a choice to pass the work on to another institution or return it to the earth. Finally, Sepake Anigiama, Artistic Director of Iniva, will share her ideas on radical pedagogies, unlearning processes and radical forms of re-imagination.

The event is free for CAS Museum Members. If a travel bursary is required please fill in this form. You can also email paula@contemporaryartsociety.org if any further questions.

General Public is required a £15 ticket or £10 concessions. Ticketholders will be provided lunch. The event space is wheelchair accessible.