Xingweiai Fang
“If you are eager to challenge yourself and become a mature person who wants to get outstanding insights of this vastly-changing world, ANU is your first choice, it is the place that I cherish"
Xingweiai Fang has handed in his thesis and is getting ready to don the gown and cap mid-July, graduating with a Master of Art History and Curatorial Studies at the Australian National University (ANU). He grew up in Changchun, China, completing his Bachelor's degree at Tsinghua University from 2014-2018, providing him with an international perspective and affirming his passion for Art History and Curatorial Studies.
He has now found a second home in Canberra at ANU. Embracing life as an international student he enthusiastically shares his impressions of Canberra - a city he has found is “filled with gorgeous restaurants, peaceful scenery, and cultural and historical landmarks, such as the National Gallery of Australia and the National Museum of Australia.” Xingweiai finds himself visiting these places on the weekend for fun, which also complements his curatorial studies practice.
Xingweiai has experienced both on-campus and off-campus living. Currently, he resides at Wamburrun Hall, where he enjoys the community feel, “meeting most of my friends in the common kitchen.” Previously, he resided in an inner-north suburb, where he fostered “independence and practical life skills.”
On-campus life at ANU is a “vibrant and balanced” experience for Xingweiai. Amidst his busy study schedule, he finds time to partake in a variety of interesting activities. He is an active member of the ANU Sports community, regularly engaging in judo sessions. He comments, "getting sweaty is a good way to keep healthy and refresh the mind for studies." Also citing the Wellbeing Centre as a really accessible place to find necessary health services “like flu or COVID-19 vaccinations.”
Xingweiai chose to study at ANU because of “positive recommendations from friends.” His study experience has been enriched by the supportive professors of the School of Art and Design (SoAD), who have “consistently inspired me throughout my studies.” His favourite courses include ARTH8012 & ARTH6057, which allowed him to learn “critical thinking, fundamental research methodologies in art history, as well as practical curatorial strategies.”
Throughout Xingweiai's learning journey he has participated in several internships or work placements. Working as a freelancer for Chinese and Australian clients have added another dimension to his professional development. Curating graphic designs for clients including the International Office of Tsinghua University, Woroni of ANU, Australian Chamber of China, ACT Chinese Students and Scholars Association, Asian Agribusiness Recruitment and Taste Aussie Drams (a Canberra based online whisky shop).
Reflecting on his time at ANU, Xingweiai stresses the importance of self-exploration in conjunction with academic pursuits. “If you are eager to challenge yourself and become a mature person who wants to get outstanding insights of this vastly-changing world, ANU is your first choice, it is the place that I cherish."
Xingweiai is now considering staying in Canberra to peruse a doctoral degree, but in the same breath says, “it’s tricky, since everything is unknown. It feels like I am boarding a plane without knowing my destination.”
