Dr. Bärbel Küster

Biography

Bärbel Küster is a professor at the Kunsthistorisches Institut at the University of Zurich. She completed her studies in art history, philosophy, and pedagogy in various cities including Kiel, Hamburg, Berlin, and Frankfurt, ultimately receiving her doctorate in 2000. Her academic career includes positions such as a research assistant at the Institute for Art History at the University of Stuttgart from 2001 to 2009 and a guest professorship in contemporary art history at the State Academy of Fine Arts Stuttgart. Küster's research interests are interdisciplinary, often focusing on the theory and history of museums, transcultural art history, and the reception of non-European art. Her editorial work includes several books and volumes related to modern art and the history of exhibitions. She has also served as a fellow in the Wrangell Excellence Program in Baden-Württemberg and has held visiting professorships at various institutions including the Technical University of Berlin. Since August 2017, she holds the chair of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Kunsthistorisches Institut in Zurich. Küster actively engages in international conferences, workshops, and projects, aiming to explore the intersections between contemporary art practices and historical narratives.

Research Interests

Experience