From Argentina to Dubai, a Visionary Latina Curator Inspiring Global Change

Dr. Mariana Turchio, Doctor in Art, curator, critic, and Peace Ambassador, is a powerful force shaping today’s global cultural scene. Now based in Dubai, she merges art with purpose, using her deep-rooted values to create impact across continents. With a bold vision to unite communities through art, Dr. Turchio is committed to celebrating diversity, empowering women, and promoting Latin American culture around the world. Throughout her decades-long career, Dr. Turchio has curated and recommended over 200 individual and group exhibitions, beginning in Argentina and expanding her influence to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Her curatorial expertise spans iconic locations such as the Argentine Congress to major international venues. But it is in the UAE—where she now resides—that her mission has taken on deeper meaning.

WORK EXPERIENCES: National Arts Coordinator, Argentina (2005–2007) Led national youth art programs including Youth Encounter 2005 and the Olympic Student Mural Initiative (1997–2004), promoting creativity in sculpture, painting, and photography. Also served as Jury for Youth Cultural Meetings representing local municipalities. Cultural Advocate for Indigenous Communities (2007) Directed a cross-community project uniting over 30 indigenous groups (Toba, Mocovíes, Abipones, Wichis) in Argentina, using art as a medium to raise awareness of ancestral land rights and identity. Executive Art Director, Museum of MERCOSUR (2008–2009) Led curatorial strategy and exhibition programming for this South American institution, emphasizing regional visual dialogue and cooperation. Founder & Director, Reconquista Art Programs (1997–2008) Initiated and ran regional art programs involving over 5,000 youths, including cultural and sports-based disciplines to empower creative expression. Organizer, Regional Art Cycle, Santa Fe (2006) Launched a self-managed platform showcasing contemporary works by regional artists, supporting emerging voices and creative independence. Author & Contributor, CECA Latin America (2009) Published a book on the evolving image of women in Latin American art, contributing to museum education and cultural outreach. Curator, Shanghai Art Fair – Spain Gallery (2010) Represented Latin American artists and served as curator for Spain’s gallery in one of the largest art fairs in Asia. Curator, Barcelona Art Galleries (2009–2011) Managed solo and collective exhibitions, strengthening the international presence of Latin American artists in Europe. Curator & Critic, Madinat Madinat, Cairo (2012) Curated exhibitions and participated in dialogues on cultural exchange and Middle Eastern visual language. Supporting Curator, Louvre Museum, Paris (2014) Collaborated with curatorial teams in artwork assessment and research at one of the world’s leading museums. Art Critic, AIBACC – Barcelona, Spain (2013–2016) Contributed expert reviews and commentary to the International Association of Contemporary Art Critics. French Alliances Cultural Projects (2010–2017) Participated in over 30 international cultural projects through French Alliance Associations across Europe. High-Level Art Consultant (2016–present) Advises on acquisition, authentication, and curation of museum-quality works by Picasso, Miró, Goya, and more. Certified Picasso Expert (2018–present) Specialist in authenticating and interpreting Picasso’s oeuvre through advanced laboratory analysis. Curator & Critic of 100+ Artists (2005–present) Promotes artists from Latin America and Europe through global exhibitions, panels, and editorial features.

“As an Ambassador, it is my responsibility to share the message of peace and tolerance,” she says.

“I am grateful to reside in the UAE, a country where these values are the core of society.”

Proud of her Latina heritage, Dr. Turchio consistently uplifts Latin American artists, offering platforms for their work while also showcasing the immense cultural richness of the Emirates. “Being a pioneer woman, art curator and critic, and being interested always in Latin artists due to my roots, I am constantly looking for ways to support and spread Latin art and culture,” she explains. Her Women’s Day Celebration event is especially close to her heart. “To do this, I looked for talented women who would shine with their own light in this country and who showed a part of their culture in this area of the Arabian Gulf,” she shares. The event, titled A Look of Women on Women, is a vibrant celebration of feminine strength — highlighting themes such as identity, healing, motherhood, creativity, and resilience through music, dance, cuisine, and artistic expression.

With a Doctorate in Art achieved in 2019, Dr. Turchio now ranks among the most respected female art curators and critics across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. In her cutting-edge work, she even authenticates masterpieces using infrared cameras and sophisticated technology — a role reserved for a select few experts worldwide. Despite her many responsibilities, she remains dedicated to her Peace Ambassador role. “It is a great honor and a huge responsibility. That is something that will stay with me no matter what,” she affirms. Through art, Dr. Mariana Turchio delivers a powerful message — one of unity, tolerance, and the beauty of cultural connection. Her vision is clear: to create a positive impact in our community through ART that UNITES US.