This session will explore notions of the artist-as-curator/ curator-as-artist dynamic; instances in which an artist seems to use curatorial methods; where the curator seems to behave as an artist, and where the relationship between the artist and curator is one of creative interdependence. The talk will trace the inception of the artist-curator role and discuss local and international examples of how artist-curators have shifted the authoritative role of the curator, and the ideological function of museums, alongside some examples from Ane’s own experience in this dual role.

Ane Tonga is an artist, curator and writer of Tongan descent. She weaves between her role as an artist and curator, often creating considered installations that provide a cultural framework in order to view her works from multiple perspectives. Much of her artistic practice examines the interstices between inter-subjective and collective experiences of place and cultural value.

Ane holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours from Elam School of Fine Arts and a Postgraduate Diploma in Museums and Cultural Heritage from the University of Auckland. Since 2008, she has exhibited her artwork regularly through solo and group exhibitions in different national art institutions including the recent international group exhibtion Pacifique(s) Contemporain(2015), l’école d’art Le Havre (The Art School of Le Havre), France; Ane Tonga: Grills (2014), Gus Fisher Gallery, Auckland; Tonga ‘i Onopooni 2014, Pataka Art Museum, Wellington; Land/Scape (2012), Papakura Art Gallery; and Dust to Dust (2011), TSB Wallace Arts Centre, Auckland.

This lecture is presented as part of Curatorial Strategies, MA in Arts Management, AUT.