Olivia Chow to Lead Curatorial Programs at Chinese Canadian Museum

Olivia Chow, an esteemed curator with a robust international portfolio, has been appointed as the Director of Curatorial Programs at the Chinese Canadian Museum, effective July 2, 2025. This appointment marks a significant milestone for the museum, which is dedicated to showcasing and preserving the history and contributions of Chinese Canadians. Chow, who has spent over a decade based in Hong Kong, brings a unique curatorial vision shaped by her commitment to Asian diasporic narratives and artist-led initiatives.

According to Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee, CEO of the Chinese Canadian Museum, "Olivia brings a global perspective and a deeply thoughtful curatorial approach to our team. Her commitment to artistic dialogue and community engagement will be essential as we continue to shape a new platform for Chinese Canadian voices." Chow's role will involve leading the museum’s curatorial vision, developing exhibitions and public programs, and fostering meaningful interactions with Chinese Canadian and broader diasporic communities.

Chow's previous work includes her role as the curator for Trevor Yeung: Courtyard of Attachments at the 60th Venice Biennale and her contributions to significant exhibitions at M+, Hong Kong’s leading visual art museum. Her experience as Assistant Curator at M+ from 2018 to 2025 included major projects such as Nalini Malani: Vision in Motion and Shirley Tse: Stakeholders. Chow’s curatorial journey also encompasses roles at Para Site and The Works Art and Design Festival, reflecting her dedication to both local and international art communities.

In her own words, Chow expressed her enthusiasm about returning to Canada, stating, "Vancouver has long been a place of arrival, passage, and connection for transnational Chinese diasporic families. The museum is uniquely positioned to help recognize overlooked histories and to tell stories that are both rooted and far-reaching." This sentiment resonates with the museum’s mission to explore the diverse histories and contemporary realities of Chinese Canadian communities.

The Chinese Canadian Museum, located in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown, is the first of its kind in Canada. It opened its doors to the public in 2023 and has since been recognized with the Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Museums. The museum aims to present transformative exhibitions that engage with the rich and varied experiences of Chinese Canadians. Its current feature exhibition, The Paper Trail, examines themes of exclusion, migration, and resilience, while ongoing exhibitions highlight the voices and stories of the Chinese diasporic community across generations.

As the museum prepares for Chow's leadership, it underscores its commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive platform for storytelling within the Chinese Canadian context. Chow’s appointment is expected to catalyze new dialogues and collaborations that will further enrich the museum's offerings and deepen its impact within the community and beyond. For more details on the museum’s programs and exhibitions, visit www.ChineseCanadianMuseum.ca.