Spotlight with Andrea Rodriguez Novoa
Andrea Rodriguez Novoa, Curator, Writer & Architect. Co-director and Head of Professional Programme, Barcelona Gallery Weekend; Co-founder and director of BAR project, Barcelona, Spain.
Could you tell us a little more about your background and how you got into curating?
Trained first as an architect and urban planner, I worked in this field for several years before starting to “flirt” with the arts. In 2007, I opened in Barcelona what wasn’t yet called a co-working space, where we also hosted events. It was during this time that I became more aware of the city’s art scene. Around 2009, possibly due to the global economic crisis and its impact on architectural practice, I decided to shift my career and explore the arts and curating. In 2010, I applied to the Curatorial Training Program at l’École du Magasin, was accepted, and the rest is history. ☺
Who/what has influenced your curatorial practice?
I like to think that what I do when curating, or even when writing, is still a form of architecture. Firstly, my perspective is deeply influenced by the aesthetics I learned and embraced as an architect, which shapes my understanding of space as a curator and how I envision artworks within it. Additionally, I always draw a parallel between architecture and literature because, to me, both involve using structures to create meaning. During my curatorial training, I wanted to step away from my previous knowledge and learn what I didn’t know: how to build concepts around ideas and works of art, how to collaborate with, support, and learn from artists. I believe this is what I have been doing ever since, and it is, I must say, the most fulfilling aspect of my work.
The role of the curator is continuously changing. Could you describe what it means to be a curator today?
Indeed, the role of a curator has evolved significantly over time, and today, curating can encompass as many different approaches as there are curators. As one of them, I’ve worked through every step involved in exhibition making, and I appreciate the comprehensive, hands-on nature of the curator's role. This includes involvement in funding, budgeting, research, conception, decision-making, writing, production, setup, and care.
What I value most, both as a curator and as a person, is interacting with people. I enjoy connecting individuals, linking ideas, collaborating, and working together. For me, the role and responsibility of a curator today go beyond writing about political engagement; it’s about being actively engaged, caring deeply, and fostering long-lasting relationships with artists and their work. This approach aims to create meaningful connections and inspire others.
Tell us about the latest exhibition / project that you curated.
When I’m not co-directing Barcelona Gallery Weekend (the next edition runs from September 19-22, 2024) or working with BAR project, I spend my time curating, writing, and occasionally teaching. Last year, I co-curated a four-day public program with my dear friend Elise Lammer at the Ses12Naus Foundation in Ibiza. The program, titled “Our Soul Is Air,” used the wind as a metaphorical starting point and explored a range of subjects, from landscape and agriculture to club and rave culture on the island.
BAR project is another significant curatorial endeavor of mine, which I share with my partner in crime, Veronica Valentini. Our next exhibition at HAUS Space for the Arts and Contemporary Practices, which we currently run, is a solo show by artist Claire Fontaine titled “Speechless.” This exhibition, featuring both existing and new works, will open on October 5, 2024. Following this, we will present a solo show by Barcelonian artist Anna Moreno at the beginning of 2025, showcasing a new body of work at the space.
What are you reading, watching, or listening to now, that is helping you to stay relaxed and positive?
I tend to read several books at once ☺. The ones piling up on my nightstand include:
"I Won’t Come Down: Women Who Climb Trees and Look into the Distance" by Italian journalist Laura Leonelli. This photobook explores women’s emancipation and features portraits of notable figures like Louisa May Alcott and Simone de Beauvoir; "Cher Connard" by Virginie Despentes, which I’m re-reading in French, "La Última Frase", a posthumous book by the artist Camila Cañeque, who we tragically lost far too soon earlier this year. Finally, I’m also working on improving my Catalan by slowly reading "Visc i Visc, i Visc", a translation of a novel by Maggie O’Farrell.
How long have you been part of IKT and how do you feel that it has benefited your curatorial practice?
I have been a member of the IKT association since 2012. Beyond the travel involved in attending congresses, which has allowed me to experience artistic contexts first hand and delve into urgent questions, being part of IKT is an excellent way to stay updated on developments in our field. It also provides the best opportunities to connect with fellow colleagues and meet new ones, fostering professional collaborations. Through IKT, I have forged many long-lasting professional and personal relationships, and I am grateful to count some of these individuals as friends.
Thank you Andrea!
Learn more about Andrea and her work on Instagram: Andrea Rodriguez Novoa | Barcelona Gallery Weekend | BAR project
Spotlight
Spotlight is a new series of short interviews, aiming to showcase the diverse expertise and innovative approaches of our IKT members. Whether you're seeking inspiration or searching for potential partners, join us on this captivating journey as we uncover the stories, ideas, and creative visions of our members.
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