Welcome to CIMAM to Candida Pestana!
"A membership in CIMAM offers the opportunity to discover new ideas, build a network that fosters fresh opportunities, and contribute to the advancement of museums, particularly in the Middle East. As the head of a project to establish the future Contemporary Museum in AlUla, building relationships with other CIMAM members is crucial. These connections will provide valuable insights from their experiences in the sector, contributing to meaningful research and supporting the growth of the cultural sector in Saudi Arabia".
Candida Pestana, Chief Curator and Head of the Contemporary Art Museum, The Royal Commission for AlUla, Alula, Saudi Arabia.
"With over 15 years of experience in establishing institutions and curating contemporary art collections, I’ve consistently worked to integrate international best practices in museology. Collaborating with peers to develop responsive institutional models, conducting rigorous research, and promoting the establishment of new institutions in contemporary art, all play a vital role in the cultural and societal development I aim to support through my work".
About Candida
Candida Pestana has 15 years of experience in contemporary art and art education; she has led impactful initiatives across the USA, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Her work bridges curatorial practice and educational strategy, fostering cultural exchange and broadening access to contemporary art for diverse audiences.
She has collaborated with international institutions, including the United Nations, where she oversaw over 80 events annually as part of its cultural programming. Her expertise spans building contemporary art collections, managing large-scale projects, and forming strategic partnerships with museums, academic institutions, government bodies, and non-profits.
Deeply committed to cultural development, Candida has contributed to academic research, been widely published and cited, and regularly speaks at international conferences and symposia. Her practice emphasises the powerful intersection of art, education, and global dialogue.
About CIMAM
CIMAM – International Committee for Museums and Collections of Modern Art – is an Affiliated Organization of ICOM.* Founded in 1962, CIMAM’s vision is a world where the contribution of museums, collections, and archives of modern and contemporary art to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of society is recognized and respected.
Join today, and take part in our network with over 900 contemporary art museum professionals from 90 countries.
Thank you, Candida Pestana, for becoming a member of CIMAM!