Spotlight on Alumni

_{Photo: Senija Topcic. Courtesy: The Douglas Hyde Gallery of Contemporary Art.}

Dr Sánchez-Migallón Cano received his BA in Art History and Archaeology from University College Dublin in 2012 and his PhD from Trinity College Dublin as a Government of Ireland Irish Research Council doctoral scholar at the School of History and Humanities. In 2024 he was appointed the Art Collection Curator at University College Dublin.

Tell us about your time at UCD School of Art History and Cultural Policy?

My years at UCD were truly formative. Choosing UCD for my studies in Art History and Archaeology was a decision rooted in the university’s outstanding reputation and its vibrant cultural environment. The combination of academic rigour and a strong sense of community drew me in immediately. One of my most cherished memories is the unforgettable class trip to Paris with Professor Emerita Paula Murphy. Exploring the world-class museums of Paris—like the Musée d'Orsay and the Louvre—while learning from such a distinguished scholar made art history come alive in a way that still inspires me today. Those moments solidified my passion for connecting people with art and the camaraderie built during that trip remains unforgettable. Studying at UCD was as much about inspiration as it was about education, and the intellectual curiosity fostered here has driven me ever since.

What did you do after you left UCD?

Since leaving UCD, my professional path has led me through some incredible opportunities within the contemporary art world. I’ve worked in various cultural spaces that prioritise contemporary art and artists such as the Royal Hibernian Academy (Dublin) and The Douglas Hyde Gallery of Contemporary Art (Dublin), managing exhibitions and developing innovative programming to make art accessible to diverse audiences. Over time, I have curated exhibitions that connect contemporary artworks with broader cultural narratives, reflecting how our world is evolving. Working in both traditional gallery settings and innovative public spaces, I’ve sought to create programs that make contemporary art accessible and engaging.

The ability to collaborate with artists, academics, and audiences has reaffirmed how much my UCD education, with its emphasis on critical thinking and contextual analysis, continues to shape my approach. Working internationally at the
Smithsonian Institution (Washington DC, USA) has also been a highlight; this global experience has given me insights into how different cultural contexts shape the interpretation of contemporary art. Now, as the newly appointed Art Collection Curator at UCD, I am eager to bring these diverse experiences back to my alma mater. It feels like a full-circle moment, and I look forward to contributing to the development of UCD’s art collection, ensuring that it remains dynamic, relevant, and inspiring for future generations.

What is the relationship between the study and research you engaged in at the School of Art History and Cultural Policy?

The foundation I built at UCD has been crucial to my curatorial work. My studies in art history instilled in me a deep understanding of the visual languages of art, while archaeological research honed my analytical skills and appreciation for cultural context. The research skills I developed have been indispensable, especially when crafting narratives around collections or researching contemporary artists whose work engages with history in unexpected ways. My academic background ensures that the art I present isn’t just visually compelling but also intellectually stimulating. The discipline instilled at UCD helps me elevate exhibitions, making them more than just displays, but rather explorations that invite visitors into a dialogue about art’s place in our ever-changing world. Moreover, the rigorous training in art historiography has allowed me to explore contemporary works with a critical yet open mindset. I continue to use the research methods I developed at UCD to investigate the cultural and societal impact of contemporary art practices, ensuring each exhibition is both thoughtful and relevant. The synthesis of historical awareness and contemporary sensibilities forms the core of my work, much as it did during my university days.

If you could offer one piece of advice to current students what would it be?

If I could offer one piece of advice to current students, it would be to engage deeply and passionately with every opportunity. Whether it's study trips, academic projects, or conversations with mentors, these experiences shape not just your knowledge, but your perspective on the world. Pursue what fascinates you.