The Purita Kalaw-Ledesma Center is an art research center managed by the Kalaw-Ledesma Foundation, Inc. The Center houses the library and the digitized scrapbooks of art patron and Art Association of the Philippines Founder Purita Kalaw-Ledesma. Since the PKL Center opened its doors in 2016, it has accommodated local and international researchers on Philippine art and culture for their individual studies as well as engaged audiences through its public programming, both onsite and online. These gatherings include exhibitions, talks, and workshops that aim to foreground the legacy of Kalaw-Ledesma in a new light for wider publics.

Since the first onsite exhibition post-pandemic titled Trace the Tracelessness of the Ant curated by Mayumi Hirano, the PKL Center hopes to build on the momentum of opening its doors to researchers, independent curators, and artists who are keen on exploring the archive, art collection, and library for an onsite curatorial project (exhibit, public program, or both) at the PKL Center.

Researchers, independent curators and artists are invited to submit an initial concept paper of at least 500 words and a timetable, CV including one reference, and cover letter indicating motivations for applying for a venue grant, intended audiences, and possible funding sources.

The successful applicant for the 2024 cycle will be provided with research and curatorial assistance, basic equipment/exhibition systems in the venue, and event promotion. The developed proposal should reflect how the curator plans to engage with the KLFI Collection (art, library, archives) with respect to their project concept. The exhibition is expected to launch at the PKL Center in October 2024. Everyone is welcome to visit the Center for preliminary research in preparation for their application.

Entries should be submitted no later than 7 May 2024 11:59pm (Manila time) via email through: [email protected]