The Citizen Curator Project of Central Florida invites participants to create a series of exhibitions in spring and summer 2017 focused on the theme “Eliminationism and Resilience.” A particularly potent example of eliminationism, defined as discourses, actions, and social policies that seek to suppress, exile, or exterminate perceived opponents, is the recent Pulse nightclub attack, whereas the Orlando United campaign may be viewed as an act of resilience.

To encourage contemporary civic discourse and engagement, we encourage projects that explore strategies for combating racism, discrimination, and eliminationism or other social practices that seek to marginalize others. The Citizen Curator Project facilitates creative engagement with local museum, library, and archival collections and invites participants to respond to the theme, “Eliminationism and Resilience.”

We urge participants to experiment, not only with a range of perspectives on the theme and historical source material, but also with the idea of what an exhibit can be. Anyone with an interest in affecting social change through exhibitions can be a Citizen Curator. This includes, but is not limited to, students, artists, activists, educators, and members of the community. No previous experience with curating is required.

To apply, email a 250-word description of your project to citizencurator@ucf.edu by March 1, 2017. Please include the type of materials you will be using, the desired or proposed location of your exhibit (UCF Art Gallery, John C. Hitt Library, online, other galleries or venues of your choice), your vision (include a sketch or image if applicable), and how your project relates to the theme “Eliminationism and Resilience.” Individuals or small groups are welcome. For more information visit: http://www.cah.ucf.edu/citizencurator/

The Citizen Curator Project of Central Florida is supported by an Institute of Museum & Library Services grant