Work from a new generation of artists explore current issues around the environment, cultural experiences, religion, people and personalities.
The ANU School of Art will host a new exhibition celebrating art connections between the University and Australia's Southeast Asian neighbours Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.
The exhibition, Making Connections: Southeast Asian Art @ ANU, coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Malaya in 1955 and with Malaysia in 1957.
The exhibition focusses on the private collection of former Australian diplomat and art collector Neil Manton, complemented by works from the ANU collection and loans from private collections.
The exhibition highlights the works of major Southeast Asian artists including Malaysians Redza Piyadasa, Latiff Mohiddin and Wong Hoy Cheong and Indonesia's Affandi and Dadang Christanto.
"The work shows a vibrant and dynamic contemporary art scene in Southeast Asia," said Emeritus Professor of Art David Williams.
"Work from a new generation of artists explore current issues around the environment, cultural experiences, religion, people and personalities."
Archival documents, catalogues and photographs tracing the University and the School of Art's engagement with Asian art will also be on show at the Menzies and School of Art Libraries.
Professor Williams paid special tribute to Neil Manton for his role in establishing and developing Australian cultural links with Malaysia and Southeast Asia, particularly in the visual arts.
"During the last three decades, Neil Manton has played a very significant role in developing and helping to build Australia-Asia diplomatic and cultural connections," Professor Williams said.
"Neil Manton's knowledge and cultural networks have contributed to the establishment of institutional links for artist and student exchange throughout the Southeast Asian region. These exchange opportunities are enjoyed by many ANU Asian Studies students, especially those attending the School of Art."
Making Connections: South East Asian Art @ ANU will be on show at the ANU School of Art Gallery from 8 - 30 May, 2015.
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