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Art Rotterdam/Unseen announces the appointment of of two new Head Curators: Övül Ö. Durmuşoğlu for Art Rotterdam and Domenico de Chirico for Unseen Photo. From 1 July 2026, they will jointly shape the artistic direction of the fair and draw on their international networks to realise an even stronger, more diverse, and carefully curated gallery programme at the fair.

Both are well acquainted with the fair as it has taken shape at Rotterdam Ahoy over the past two years. Övül was responsible for the artistic programming of the New Art Section within Art Rotterdam for the past two editions; Domenico de Chirico curated the Unseen Encounters section.

Övül Ö. Durmuşoğlu, newly appointed Head Curator Art Rotterdam:”Art Rotterdam is one of the key organisations that keep the heartbeat of the Dutch speaking art scene. To be entrusted with this overseeing curatorial role in its future steps is very humbling and exciting at the same time. I look forward to how we will shape the future together.”

Domenico de Chirico, newly appointed Head Curator Unseen Photo:”Rooted in photography’s rich history while embracing its continuous transformation, Unseen Photo, as part of Art Rotterdam, is a platform dedicated to artistic discovery, critical dialogue, and the evolving language of photography. My vision is to strengthen its role as an international meeting place where emerging and established voices challenge conventions, inspire new perspectives, and reflect the complexities of contemporary visual culture.”

Fons Hof, director Art Rotterdam / Unseen Photo:”Övül and Domenico each bring a unique vision, an impressive international track record, and a valuable network of international curators and collectors. With their curatorial expertise and innovative perspective, we are taking an important step in the further artistic development and international positioning of Art Rotterdam / Unseen Photo.”