Francesco Bonami Advises Against Curatorial Studies

Francesco Bonami, former artistic director of the Venice Biennale, has publicly advised aspiring curators to skip formal education in curatorial studies, suggesting they 'save their money' instead. His comments, reported by Artnet News, challenge the value of academic programs in the field. Bonami's statement is notable given his prominent career, which includes curating the 2003 Venice Biennale and serving as artistic director of the 2010 Turin Triennale. He has also held positions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago and the Whitney Museum of American Art. The advice comes amid ongoing debates about the necessity of formal training versus practical experience in the art world. Bonami's remark is likely to influence emerging curators and spark discussion within art institutions and educational programs.