Ecole du Magasin

International Curatorial Training Program

In 1987 the École du MAGASIN was founded as one of the activities of the art center, MAGASIN in Grenoble. Being the first international curatorial studies program in Europe, it was set up to provide a professional environment for a rigorous combination of research and practice. By providing the participants with a nine months hands-on experience in organizing a curatorial project, the École du MAGASIN gives a direct approach to curatorial practices. The program presents a wide variety of insights into what curating can be and become in the future through a series of tutorials, workshops, seminars and visits with professionals from different backgrounds.

The program is centered on the development of one or various curatorial projects. The project can be focused on a theme proposed by the tutorial comity or can evolve in directions proposed by the students.

Each session lasts nine months and is divided into two stages:

• Stage 1/ October – December The first stage aims at establishing a framework and a collective working method. The program advisor assists in organizing monthly seminars, which include lectures, presentations, group or one-to-one discussions and online working sessions.
• Stage 2/ January – June The second stage focuses on the production of the project. During a five-month period, session participants define the means of the project’s materialization and presentation, select the contributors, seek potential institutional or commercial partners, edit a press release and public relations material, and monitor the budget.

The sudents of the Ecole du Magasin develops a web link that presents all activities and published researches produced by the ongoing session.

The reputation enjoyed by Grenoble and Rhone-Alpes for its quality of life is explained by the exceptional natural environment and the diversity of urban and cultural life in the region.
On account of Grenoble-Isère’s central position in the French Alps, its population may easily go skiing, hiking, mountaineering, hang-gliding and so on. In 1968, Grenoble was host to the Winter Olympics. It is surrounded by three natural parks. The numerous mountain lakes and the proximity of the Mediterranean provide plenty of scope for sailing.
With a large number of students from abroad, city life is cosmopolitan and lively. Over 35 different nationalities are represented in the Grenoble area. Newcomers will find a pleasant environment and a choice of accommodation to suit their expectations and budget.
In addition to its own attractions, Grenoble-Isère is close to Lyon, Geneva, Italy and only at 3 hours by TGV to Paris. Artistic life in the area is promoted by Magasin, Musée de Grenoble, MC2 (Maison de la Culture), and Lyon Opera House, Vienne Jazz Festival amongst numerous facilities.