At a Glance
- Tasks: Submit your artwork exploring Chinese adoptee identity and connect with a vibrant community.
- Company: Pao Arts Center, a hub for AAPI artists and cultural expression.
- Benefits: Showcase your work in a unique exhibit and network with fellow artists.
- Other info: Engage in cohort gatherings and attend the opening reception in Boston.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking exhibit that amplifies Chinese adoptee voices.
- Qualifications: Open to all Chinese adoptee artists, regardless of medium or experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Pao Arts Center is looking for Chinese adoptee artists whose practice engages with adoptee identity as a central theme. This exhibit centres the voices of Chinese adoptee artists, illuminating the lived experiences and creative expressions that emerge as they negotiate, reimagine, and reclaim their complex identities.
This call for artists is organised around the Adoptee Consciousness Model—an academic framework that traces the nonlinear, ever-evolving path of adoptee identity. The model features five “touchstones” or defining moments which “propel the adoptee to a different aspect of consciousness, rather than a linear set of stages with a ‘final’ or desired outcome.” The touchstones are: status quo, rupture, dissonance, expansiveness, and agency. During the submission process, Pao Arts Center asks artists to reflect on their work in relation to the Consciousness Model.
This exhibit will be curated by Maia Erslev (they/them), a Chinese adoptee and the Visual Arts Manager at Pao Arts Center. If you have any questions or would like to arrange a virtual meeting, don’t hesitate to reach out to Maia Erslev. It will be on view from November 12, 2026 to January 15, 2027.
RequirementsPao Arts Center welcomes submissions from Chinese adoptees of all backgrounds and mediums and will consider both existing and new work. This is one of the first exhibits to centre Chinese adoptee voices, and they hope to use this unique opportunity to foster meaningful connections between selected artists and a broader community of AAPI artists through Pao Arts Center’s extensive network. Artists who are actively seeking connection with other adoptee artists are strongly encouraged to apply.
Please note that Pao Arts Center does not currently offer a travel stipend. Artists are responsible for arranging and covering the cost of transportation of their artwork to and from Pao Arts Center. Two required cohort gatherings will be held in Boston, with virtual options available. Selected artists are required to attend the opening reception in person on Thursday, November 12, 2026. The call for submissions is open May 18–August 9. Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Emerging from Rupture: Chinese Adoptee Voices in London employer: Asian American Arts Alliance
Pao Arts Center is an exceptional employer that champions the voices of Chinese adoptee artists, fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of Boston. With a commitment to meaningful engagement and community connection, the centre offers unique opportunities for artistic growth and collaboration, making it an inspiring place for creatives to explore and express their identities. By centring the experiences of adoptees, Pao Arts Center not only enriches the local arts scene but also provides a supportive environment for artists to thrive.
Contact Detail:
Asian American Arts Alliance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Emerging from Rupture: Chinese Adoptee Voices in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow artists and adoptees in your community. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about sharing your work. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that gig!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your unique voice! When you’re preparing for interviews or discussions, focus on how your experiences as a Chinese adoptee shape your art. This personal touch can really resonate with curators and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see an opportunity that excites you, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and get your work out there. Remember, the early bird catches the worm!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for those cohort gatherings! Whether in-person or virtual, these are golden opportunities to connect with other artists. Bring your best self, share your journey, and soak up all the inspiration around you!
We think you need these skills to ace Emerging from Rupture: Chinese Adoptee Voices in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. Pao Arts Center is all about Chinese adoptee voices, so make sure your application reflects that focus. We want to see how your work connects with the themes of identity and experience.
Be Authentic:This is your chance to share your unique story! Don’t hold back on expressing your personal journey as a Chinese adoptee artist. We’re looking for genuine reflections that resonate with the Adoptee Consciousness Model, so let your voice shine through.
Follow the Guidelines:Make sure you read the submission requirements carefully. We want to see both existing and new work, but it’s crucial to align your submission with the expectations set by Pao Arts Center. Stick to the deadlines and format to keep things smooth!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way to ensure your work gets seen by the right people. Plus, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Maia Erslev for guidance!
How to prepare for a job interview at Asian American Arts Alliance
✨Know Your Story
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your own journey as a Chinese adoptee. Think about how your experiences relate to the themes of identity and consciousness outlined in the Adoptee Consciousness Model. Being able to articulate your personal narrative will help you connect with the curators and demonstrate your passion for the exhibit.
✨Engage with the Touchstones
Familiarise yourself with the five touchstones of the Adoptee Consciousness Model: status quo, rupture, dissonance, expansiveness, and agency. Prepare examples from your work that resonate with these concepts. This will show that you understand the framework and can engage deeply with the themes of the exhibit.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the exhibit and the curatorial process. Inquire about how they envision the connections between selected artists and the broader AAPI community. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the opportunity aligns with your artistic goals.
✨Showcase Your Work Effectively
When discussing your artwork, be clear about how it reflects your identity as a Chinese adoptee. Highlight any existing pieces or new work you plan to submit that align with the exhibit's themes. Use visuals if possible, as this can make your presentation more engaging and memorable.
