open call for exhibition proposals

421 invites curators and curatorial collectives to submit full proposals for an exhibition to be developed and presented at 421 during Winter/Spring 2027. This opportunity supports curators in researching, learning from, and working closely with contemporary artistic practices in the UAE and wider Arabic-speaking geographies, including diasporic contexts.

We are seeking tightly framed curatorial proposals grounded in critical inquiry and ready for exhibition development. Submissions must demonstrate a coherent and articulated curatorial vision at the time of application.

Applicants are invited to reflect on the following prompts:

• What narratives are currently shaping Arabic-speaking geographies?

• What artistic gestures are emerging from the margins of these contexts?

• How can curatorial work become a space for listening, translation, and reimagination?