Melanie Keen

Melanie Keen is a British art historian, curator, and writer specializing in contemporary art, particularly socially engaged art and public art. She is known for her work exploring the intersection of art, activism, and social change.

Keen has held prominent positions in the arts sector, including serving as the Director of Iniva (Institute of International Visual Arts) from 2009 to 2017. During her tenure at Iniva, she focused on showcasing and supporting artists from diverse cultural backgrounds, particularly those working within the African and Asian diasporas.

Her curatorial projects often address complex social and political issues, and she has been involved in numerous exhibitions, publications, and research initiatives that examine the role of art in shaping public discourse and promoting social justice. She has written extensively on contemporary art and artists, contributing to various journals, books, and exhibition catalogues. Her work frequently emphasizes the importance of criticality and ethical engagement within the art world. She continues to contribute to the field through writing, lecturing, and consulting on arts and culture initiatives.