Paula Swart

Paula Swart is an art historian with expertise in Asian art, culture, and history, and has spent most of her professional life as a curator of Asian Studies. She has been a lecturer in the Continuing Education Departments of the University of British Columbia where she has taught a series of courses related to UNESCO World Heritage. Educated in Leiden and Amsterdam, Paula holds degrees in Sinology, Asian art history, Chinese history, and archaeology, having spent two years studying in China. She speaks five languages, including Mandarin, and has published several books and numerous articles on the art and architecture of Asian cultures. A frequent contributor to the Arts of Asia magazine, which published “The Last King of Ubud” Recognized for his Role in Cultural Tourism” in the Autumn 2024 issue of Arts of Asia, discusses the importance of the royal support to preserve, develop and maintain the high quality of Balinese art. Paula has co-curated the 1994 exhibit “Clay & Cloth: A Celebration of Life and Death in Borneo” and the popular 2007-2008 exhibition “Rice is Life: Cultivation, Culture and Meaning”.

Paula has enjoyed introducing visitors to Asian culture and history, 17th-century Dutch trade and maritime history for more than 30 years, having participated in well over 70 expeditions by train, ship or private jet. Her most recent article “In Focus: The Enduring Cultural Exchanges between Holland and Japan”, published in the Autumn 2025 issue of Arts of Asia, explores encounters and mutual influences beyond the trade connections.

Language spoken: English