Artist-2-Artist: Curatorial practice across cultures

Focusing on navigating the Sydney art context, this workshop is designed for emerging curators, as well as art students transitioning from academic study into independent practice. It responds to the common challenges faced by multicultural practitioners and students when entering a new cultural and professional environment, particularly those from Chinese backgrounds.

Led by curator and founder of Puzzle Art Garage, Luna Wenxin Xu, the session shares practical and experience-based insights into building a curatorial practice beyond university. Topics include understanding the local art ecosystem, identifying entry points into the industry, finding internships and opportunities, and developing independent curatorial projects. Drawing from her experience establishing and running an artist-run initiative, Luna will also discuss how to create your own platform, build meaningful networks, and sustain a practice over time.

Based on her experience as an Academic Program Reviewer for the UNSW curating program, where a significant proportion of students come from Chinese backgrounds, the workshop also reflects on the specific needs, gaps, and questions that often arise within this community.

The workshop will be conducted in Mandarin and is designed as an open and supportive space. Combining a short presentation with discussion and Q&A, it encourages participants to reflect on their own position, ask questions, and connect with others navigating similar pathways.

About the artist

Luna Wenxin Xu 徐雯莘 is a Sydney-based curator and the founding director of Puzzle Art Garage, an artist-run initiative she established in 2021 after graduating from the Master of Curating and Cultural Leadership at UNSW. Her work focuses on site-responsive exhibitions and creating platforms for emerging artists and curators.

Alongside her independent practice, Luna has worked across major art institutions in Sydney, including the Art Gallery of New South Wales and White Rabbit Gallery, gaining experience across both institutional and independent contexts. She has also participated in a curatorial talk at MCA, and in 2025 was invited as an Academic Program Reviewer for the UNSW curating program.

Key details

Who is this for?

Participants should have an interest in curating, contemporary art, or cultural practice. This session is particularly suited to students or early-career practitioners, especially those from Chinese backgrounds navigating study and practice in Sydney.

What experience do you need?

The workshop will be conducted in Mandarin. No prior professional experience is required, but participants are encouraged to come with questions, ideas, or challenges they would like to discuss.

Accessibility

We welcome all visitors to the City of Sydney Creative Studios.

If you have access requirements, please add your accessibility requirements during the booking process. This includes booking companion card tickets. If you require an interpreter, or would like to contact someone about access, please email Dean Nash (Accessibility Coordinator) at access@brandx.org.au.

This project is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW and the City of Sydney Creative Studios.