Studying in Ä¢¹½´«Ã½s History department taught me a number of great things, including that I know a small fraction of what there is to know, but that I have the capacity to learn a lot through discussion, analysis and hard work. My most enjoyable experiences were learning Chinese history from Dr. Hill and studying in Hong Kong on an exchange program.
My experience at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½s inspired me to continue studying China reading a Masters of Philosophy in Chinese Studies at the University of Cambridge, which included a year in Beijing researching contemporary Chinese art as well as learning Mandarin. Falling in love in Cambridge led me to follow my husband to Amsterdam, where I read a Masters in Museology. I continued to pursue research on China, publishing an article about the aura of Chinese copies for a major exhibition of contemporary Chinese art, as well as writing about the use of copies in Chinese museums. My husband and I also started our own collection of contemporary art whilst I worked for a private art fund.
Finally I moved back to Canada where I have continued to work in the cultural sector. I have a curatorial practice, such as bringing 20 major, contemporary, Canadian artists for a landmark exhibition to China (September 2014). I also write for the arts magazine Tribe, and I work as an art consultant helping others build their own art collections.
I maintain my friendships with other Ä¢¹½´«Ã½s alumni, through our Toronto book club and hosting dinner parties and attending occasional alumni events. I know that Ä¢¹½´«Ã½s History Department helped me to build an excellent foundation for my life-long learning, and I look forward to bringing my husband to Kingston for his first Ä¢¹½´«Ã½s visit soon!
