Our Team
Director | Jiayu Zhang | The University of Melbourne
Jiayu Zhang pursued her postgraduate studies in Arts and Cultural Management at the University of Melbourne, and her graduation thesis earned the First Class Honors. Upon graduation, she also received scholarship offers for a PhD from the University of Sydney and Bond University. These offers added valuable academic experiences and a strong knowledge base to her journey in the field of art management.
In 2021, she actively engaged in art-related and international cultural volunteer activities. For instance, she had the opportunity to showcase her artistic passion and talent in "The Amos Gebhardt exhibitions." This art event inspired her and ignited her interest in the digital art development of Australian art galleries and museums. Two months later, while working on her postgraduate thesis at the Melbourne Museum, she had the privilege to participate in "The Flesh After Fifty Arts Exhibition," organized by the University of Melbourne, Creative Victoria, and The Royal Women’s Hospital at Abbotsford Convent. This invaluable internship experience during the pandemic allowed her to gain insights into the operations and promotion of the art industry.
As a cultural communicator with a humanistic sentiment, she is deeply passionate about early childhood education and art in Australia. She aspires to collaborate with educational institutions in the art field, such as art galleries, museums, and cultural enterprises, as an individual cultural and artistic communicator. During her work at the Adelaide Kindergarten, she combines art and education to provide enriching art experience courses for children, nurturing their creativity and imagination. In the future, she hopes to bring the benefits of art and cultural enlightenment to more children.
In addition to cultural and creative products and art education, she has a positive outlook on the future of Australia's art and cultural industry, especially Australian Aboriginal art, human prehistoric art, and more. She has a clear direction for her company and is eager to apply her professional knowledge, extensive experience, and unique perspective to deliver excellent art consulting services to clients.
Artisan of Embroidered Fans | Xiaohong Mu
Xiaohong Mu is a dedicated preserver of China’s intangible cultural heritage, specializing in the traditional craft of embroidered round fan making. Combining exquisite embroidery techniques with the graceful aesthetics of classical fan design, Xiaohong transforms each piece into a unique work of art that embodies the elegance and cultural depth of Chinese craftsmanship.
With years of experience and an unwavering passion for the art, Xiaohong meticulously handcrafts every fan, blending intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and storytelling elements. Her creations not only celebrate traditional culture but also breathe new life into this heritage craft, making it relevant in modern times.
As an advocate for cultural preservation, Xiaohong actively participates in exhibitions and workshops, sharing her knowledge and skills with younger generations to ensure the legacy of embroidered round fans continues to thrive.
Cooperation Partner | Dr. Guohua Yang | The University of Cambridge
Dr Yang (MA in Public Archaeology, UCL; PhD in Archaeology [World Heritage studies], University of Cambridge), prior to his PhD research at Cambridge, Dr Yang worked as a Cultural Heritage Expert at the UNESCO Office Beijing (on the production of an international textbook: Paper Conservation Guidelines : The Methodology of Paper Conservation and Paper Making Traditions in East Asia: 2008-2012); and on the international research project 'Chinese Sites for UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List: Presentation and Management' with SOAS, University of London, UK, in collaboration with Bologna University, Italy (2009-2010), and as Deputy Director of Expert Committee of China Cultural Heritage Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, P.R. China (2008-2010). He is the author of World Heritage in China (English and Chinese), the Central Party Literature Press (Zhongyang wenxian chubanshe), Beijing, 2008.
Dr Yang's interest is ancient cultures and ancient civilizations of China. Previous projects have investigated the use of the concept of patriotism in the state promotion of heritage in China, the ideological significance of World Heritage designation, and development of the Chinese script.
In his current position as Senior Research Associate and Co-Principal Investigator on the project ‘Yangshao Culture: 100 Year Research History and Heritage Impact’; he focus on the roles of substantial historiographic research and museum studies and investigate constructions in the dissemination of a notion of the Yanshao Culture as regional and national heritage. This research will investigate what effects emerging practices of Heritage Studies and museums building programs have on the state’s ideological use of the Yangshao Culture, and whether the notions of authenticity, difference and uniqueness on which local museums are based will undermine the ‘official narrative’ which uses Yangshao Culture objects to legitimise the current ethnic configuration of China.
Cooperation Partner | Dr. Brian Long | The University of Melbourne
Dr. Brian Long's career began with music-performance studies at the University of Melbourne's Conservatorium. Postgraduate studies in conducting at the Victorian College of the Arts followed.
Soon after, Brian began his research journey in the music collection of the Austrian National Library in Vienna with manuscript research on Gustav Mahler's conducting of his seventh symphony. This turned out to be the beginning of a ten-year stint in Vienna that included several appearances in major European conducting competitions.
On returning to Melbourne, Brian's research interests turned to political science and he completed an MA in research that studied German cultural diplomacy efforts in Britain at the time of German reunification.
Brian's doctoral research combined his interests in political science and arts and cultural management. His PhD dissertation studies a group of professional orchestras that use democratically organised governance, Brian has taught in the arts and cultural management program at the University of Melbourne since 2008 and also works as a translator for a major music publisher.
Cooperation Partner | The Guo State Museum
Located on Liu Feng North Road in Hubin District, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province, the Sanmenxia Guo State Museum is a specialized archaeological site museum built upon the ancient Guo State burial grounds from the Western Zhou Dynasty. As a nationally recognized second-tier museum and a Henan Province Science Education Base, it has become a cornerstone of cultural and historical preservation since its opening in October 2000. The museum spans an area of over 2,100 square meters and houses a rich collection of artifacts from the Guo State.
The museum's permanent exhibition, “The Elegance of Zhou, the Charm of Guo: A Historical and Cultural Showcase of the Guo State,” is divided into six thematic sections: "Majestic Banners," "Radiant Bronzes," "Gleaming Jades," "Brilliant Treasures," "Resounding Chariots," and "Regal Tombs." This comprehensive display vividly illustrates the grandeur and distinctiveness of Guo State culture during the Western Zhou Dynasty. Highlights of the collection include exquisite artifacts such as the Bronze Fang Yi, the "Chang Bo" Yi, and the Yang Sui, all of which demonstrate the superb craftsmanship and cultural sophistication of the time.
Recognized as a Henan Province Civilized Scenic Tourist Site, the Sanmenxia Guo State Museum serves not only as a treasure trove of historical artifacts but also as a dynamic venue for cultural education and the promotion of Chinese heritage. Visitors from all walks of life are warmly invited to explore and experience the magnificence and depth of Western Zhou civilization.
Cooperation Partner | The Yangshao Museum
Nestled in the heart of China's historical tapestry, the Yangshao Museum stands as a testament to the rich cultural legacy of the region. Located in Mianchi County, Henan Province, this museum offers a captivating journey through the ancient civilization of the Yangshao culture, which flourished over 5,000 years ago.
The museum's architecture itself is a blend of modern design and traditional elements, mirroring the balance between past and present that it seeks to portray. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a meticulously curated collection that showcases the daily lives, artistry, and technological achievements of the Yangshao people. Intricately designed pottery, finely crafted tools, and evocative artifacts unveil a society deeply rooted in agriculture, community, and artistic expression.
The centrepiece of the museum is its extensive display of Yangshao pottery, famed for its exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs. These vessels, ranging from simple utilitarian objects to ornate ceremonial pieces, provide a window into the culture's spiritual beliefs and rituals. Visitors can marvel at the intricate patterns, ranging from geometric motifs to representations of flora and fauna, all of which hint at the society's close connection to nature.
The museum's layout is thoughtfully organized, guiding visitors through different aspects of Yangshao life. Interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages, allowing them to experience ancient techniques and immerse themselves in the process of pottery-making, weaving, and farming. The on-site research facilities offer scholars and enthusiasts alike the opportunity to delve deeper into the culture's mysteries and advancements.
Beyond its educational offerings, the Yangshao Museum is a bridge between the past and the present. It fosters an appreciation for China's cultural heritage while encouraging reflection on the enduring themes of human creativity, innovation, and adaptability. Whether one is a history aficionado or a casual explorer, the museum provides a captivating narrative of a society that has left an indelible mark on China's history.
We will collaborate with additional Chinese and Australian art galleries and museums. Please continue to stay updated on Art Soulify's future developments.