Pei-Chia
Pai

Hello again, Jasmine! It’s been a few years since your last interview, so please tell us – where are you now and what have you been doing since we last interviewed you?

Hello, it’s great to reconnect. I am currently working in the exhibitions team at the Fubon Art Museum in Taipei, where I focus on exhibition coordination and liaising with international institutions. Over the past few years, I have been involved in a range of exhibition projects, working closely with museums, artists, and lenders worldwide. My role covers the full process—from early-stage communication and loan agreements to transportation, condition checking, installation, and deinstallation. This experience has given me a comprehensive understanding of how exhibitions come together from start to finish.

What do you find most fulfilling about your current role?

One of the most fulfilling parts of my role is the condition checking process. It is a unique opportunity to closely examine masterpieces from around the world, including works by artists such as Monet and Miró. I recall working on a painting from Monet’s Water Lilies series—under inspection lighting, details invisible to the public gradually emerge, almost like discovering the “behind-the-scenes” of the artwork.

In addition, we often host international museum professionals, including curators and directors from institutions such as the Guggenheim, LACMA, and the Uffizi. Being able to guide them through our museum and exchange perspectives is also a deeply rewarding experience.

How do you think your time at NTU prepared you for the position you have now?

My time at NTU encouraged me to explore beyond my comfort zone and to embrace uncertainty. I was often challenged to work with unfamiliar materials and techniques, which taught me how to learn through experimentation and mistakes. Over time, this process built both my confidence and adaptability. NTU also helped me develop strong critical thinking and communication skills, which are essential in a collaborative and international working environment like the museum field.

What is your proudest achievement at work, or your most memorable moment?

One of my most memorable experiences was working on an international loan exhibition. From coordinating with overseas institutions to overseeing transportation and installation, every step required precision and close collaboration. I still remember escorting artworks during transport, with police escorts ensuring their safe transport. Seeing the works safely installed in the gallery at the end of that process was both a relief and a very proud moment.

Now that you have had some time to reflect, do you have any advice to our next graduating class, which might help them to find a job that they will enjoy as much as you enjoy yours?

My advice would be to stay open and take advantage of the opportunities available during your time at NTU. Try different experiences, whether academic or extracurricular. Not everything will go as planned, but each experience helps you understand yourself better and build your skills. Most importantly, stay curious—curiosity often leads you to unexpected and meaningful paths.

Since graduating you have helped to coordinate several alumni gatherings in Taipei. What do you enjoy most about them?

What I enjoy most is the sense of connection. It’s always meaningful to reconnect with people who share a common background, while also hearing how their paths have evolved over time. These gatherings feel both familiar and refreshing, and often lead to inspiring conversations.

Finally, what do you miss most about NTU?

What I miss most about NTU is the atmosphere—the freedom to learn, explore, and grow. It was a very special period of my life. Looking back, even the challenges, such as final submissions, have become meaningful experiences that shaped who I am today. I would encourage everyone to truly cherish their time at NTU—it will remain one of the most valuable memories in your life.