Project Assistant

The studio of contemporary artist Cai Guo-Qiang (Cai Studio) is seeking a highly capable and sharp Project Assistant. This position offers an unique opportunity to work closely with a leading figure in the art world, supporting a range of exciting and impactful projects around the globe, especially fireworks explosion events, with opportunities to grow into a Project Manager role. The dynamic role requires an exceptional command of English and the ability to communicate in Mandarin Chinese.

This is a full time position located between New York, NY and Chester, NJ. Transportation from NYC to Chester, NJ is provided by the studio.

Start date: ASAP

About Cai Studio

Founded by Cai Guo-Qiang and his wife Hong Hong Wu in the 1990s, Cai Studio provides all around support for Cai Guo-Qiang’s rich creative output, especially surrounding the realization, presentation, circulation, and development of Cai’s artworks. In addition to maintaining a complete and unique sustainable ecosystem for Cai’s work, the studio serves as the artist’s sole representative for all business matters. The studio currently maintains two locations, one in the East Village, New York (office designed by OMA) and one in Chester, New Jersey (workshop and office designed by Frank Gehry). The studio has ~20 employees, split into the following departments: Projects Management, Archives and Libraries, Collections Management, Studio Administration, Technical Management, and cAI™ Lab.

Responsibilities:

• Provide comprehensive support for the artist’s projects at major institutions worldwide, particularly for fireworks explosion events. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, assisting with proposal development, artwork creation, and production.
• Create visual renderings, either static or animated, to illustrate artistic visions.
• Conduct research on assigned subjects, prepare reports, and assist in the development of project proposals and presentations. 
• Perform verbal and written translation (Chinese – English) on various occasions, including public speaking. 
• Other duties may include occasional art handling and assisting with artwork production.

Qualifications:

• Background in Visual and Studio Arts, Art History, or a related humanities field. A dual degree or double major in Computer Science or Mechanical Engineering is preferred. A master’s degree is preferred but not required.
• Command of design, and/or photo editing softwares.
• Interest in fireworks design and development, as well as new technologies, is preferred.
• An exceptional command of English and the ability to communicate in Mandarin Chinese.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle challenging situations and multiple tight deadlines while working as part of a small, close-knit team. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A detail-oriented mindset with superior problem-solving skills. 

Strongly desired qualifications:

• Experience with new technology, especially AI.
• A passion for art and knowledge of contemporary art trends. A keen interest in other humanities fields and disciplines, such as philosophy, music, and film, is a plus.
• Working proficiency of a third language (other than Chinese and English).
• Possess a valid US driver’s license.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A creative and collaborative work environment with exposure to cutting-edge art projects.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the studio.
• The chance to work directly with a renowned artist and contribute to influential art projects across the globe.

To apply, please send the following materials to [email protected]

• Résumé (one in English, and one in Chinese) and cover letter
• Writing Samples in English

Please include "Project Assistant Application" in the subject line.

03/26/2025