Paper short abstract:

In this presentation I will delve into the synergies and tensions that arise when anthropological and curatorial practices intersect, focusing on the field of vernacular arts. I will argue for the potential of the curatorial turn to amplify anthropology's impact in the artistic and public sphere.

Paper long abstract:

Working both as an anthropologist and a curator, I often witness the natural convergence of these two roles. However, specific instances reveal occasional tensions between these disciplines, prompting a critical reflection on my dual identity as anthropologist and curator. With a focus on the field of vernacular arts—a subject of my research and curatorial focus since 2016—in this presentation I aim to explore the interconnections between anthropology and the curatorial. Drawing from my firsthand experiences as a curator, I will delve into the benefits and challenges that arise when anthropological and curatorial practices intersect.

In parallel, I will advocate for the relevance of the curatorial to anthropology and to the broader field of artistic and cultural production, emphasizing its potential to enhance the discipline's engagement with the broader public. By sharing reflections from my curatorial work, I aspire to contribute to a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in merging these disciplines and underscore the potential of the curatorial turn to amplify anthropology's impact in the public sphere.