Welcoming New Curator of Missouri Student Unions, Public Arts Collection

Art is not confined by boundaries; it is a universal language that transcends cultures and speaks to the soul. Today, we are thrilled to introduce our new curator, Hongjue (Dorothy) Dai, a Ph.D. student in Art History of Visual Studies who brings a wealth of experiences and a global perspective to our public art space.

Dorothy graduated from the University of Leicester in the UK, where she earned an MA degree in Art Museum and Gallery Studies. Her dissertation, "How an art museum destigmatizes sex workers in China," was groundbreaking, shedding light on the transformative power of art in addressing complex societal issues. Dorothy's academic pursuits exemplify her dedication to art as a force for positive change.

Last year, she was a project manager in curating an exhibition in the UK called Future Landscapes, which places the work of artist Rebecca Chesney in dialogue with a selection of pieces from the Arts Council Collection, inviting the audience to focus on the environment. Her talent doesn't stop there; she also served as a cultural consultant at Baker Langham and actively participated in museum programs in the United Arab Emirates and the US, where she embraced the rich tapestry of diverse cultures and artistic expressions.

This year, she has returned to her homeland, China, to curate a commercial immersive exhibition for Van Gogh, Matisse, and Seurat, that promises to engage and inspire. Her involvement as a creative director in an immersive drama production highlights her ability to seamlessly blend art with storytelling and technology, creating unforgettable experiences for audiences.

Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of Dorothy's appointment is her international perspective. As an international student, she embodies a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of diverse artistic expressions from around the world. We eagerly anticipate her contributions towards making our public art space more inclusive and welcoming to all. 

Hongjue Dai in Yunnan, China

  

Join us in extending a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Dorothy as she embarks on this exciting journey with us. Stay tuned for upcoming exhibitions and events curated by Dorothy. The canvas of our public art space is about to come alive with new colors and perspectives!