Southeast Asian Contemporary Arts Reunite at Galeri PETRONAS

GALERI PETRONAS today launched its latest exhibition, “SEMANGAT 10: Visual Expressions of Southeast Asian Identity”.
 
A showcase of 34 unique contemporary artworks by 24 artists from the 10 ASEAN nations, the exhibition celebrates the region’s revered landscape, cultural diversity, traditional practices and belief systems through paintings, installations, photography, videography and sculptures.
  
Speaking at the launch, PETRONAS Chairman Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hassan said, “SEMANGAT 10 seeks to complement the multi-lateral relations between the ASEAN countries through arts, especially as the nations share many commonalities and a strong bond nurtured through the ages.

“The exhibition is also a constant testament of PETRONAS’ mission to contribute to the well-being of society. Despite the challenges in the global oil and gas industry, PETRONAS remains committed towards nurturing, promoting and preserving the collective artistic gestures and memories distinctive within ASEAN.”
 
ASEAN, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, had come a long way since its formation in 1967 and SEMANGAT 10 would reinforce and continuously put a holistic emphasis of the development of its peoples in progressive yet peaceful ways, he added.
 
This exhibition, also the last to be hosted by GALERI PETRONAS this year, documents the cultural and social dynamics of a rapidly changing society not only to reflect the vibrancy of Southeast Asia’s contemporary art scene, but also to foster linkages among members of the region’s art fraternity.
  
Among 24 artists showcased in this exhibition are Ahmad Shukri Mohamed, Ahmad Zakii Anwar, Chan Kok Hooi, Hamir Soib, Jalaini Abu Hassan, Zulkifli Yusoff, Pengiran Timbang, Sopheap Pich, Heri Dono, Krisna Murti, Yunizar, Marisa Darasavath, Aung Kyaw Htet, Nge Lay, Alfredo Esquillo Jr, Geraldine Javier, Norberto Roldan, Fyerool Darma, Kumari Nahappan, Ampannee Satoh, Jirapat Tatsanasomboon, Natee Utarit, Pham Huy Thong and Pham An Hai.
  
Also present at the launch was PETRONAS Senior General Manager of Group Strategic Communications Zahariah (Liza) Abdul Rahman.
  
“It is our sincere hope that this exhibition will provide a stimulating visual experience and at the same time, offer the public a chance to re-examine the artistic and cultural values of each ASEAN country. Only by understanding and appreciating our similarities and differences can we form a unifying regional identity,” said Liza.

The exhibition is open for public viewing at GALERI PETRONAS on Level 3, Suria KLCC from 23 November 2016 until 15 January 2017. Admission is free.

About GALERI PETRONAS

GALERI PETRONAS is located at Level 3, Suria KLCC. It was established by PETRONAS with the aim to promote, develop and preserve contemporary art in Malaysia by providing a versatile, world-class platform for Malaysian and international artists to display their works and inspire industry thought leadership.  GALERI PETRONAS has received almost two million visitors since it opened its doors to the public in 1992 hosting numerous local and international exhibitions.

GALERI PETRONAS aims to make art accessible, enjoyable and engaging to the public and will continue to enthrall audiences with exciting exhibitions and public programmes. 

GALERI PETRONAS is open from Tuesday – Sunday, from 10:00am – 8:00pm.