Co-curated by Gridthiya Gaweewong, Kasamaponn Saengsuratham, Kittima Chareeprasit and Ekkalak Napthuesuk

Artists
Ampannee Satoh, Amru Thaisnit, Anis Nagasevi, Apichatpong Weerasethakul,I-na Phuyuthanon, Jakkai Siributr, Jamilah Daud, Jamilah Haji, Jehabdulloh Jehsorhoh, Kameelah I-lala, Keeta Isran, Korakot Sangnoy, Mahamasabree Jehloh, Muhammadsuriyee Masu, Mumadsoray Deng, Nuriya Waji, Nurulfirdaos Ding, Pichet Piaklin, Prach Pimarnman, Pratchaya Phinthong, Roslisham Ismail (ISE), Ruangsak Anuwatwimon, Salwanee Hajisamae,  Sirichai Pummak, Suhaidee Sata, Sureena Chema, Vinai Dithajohn and Zakariya Amataya 

MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum is proud to present PATANI SEMASA: an exhibition on contemporary art from the Golden Peninsula. Ranging from different time periods, works of art as well as cultural representations of the ‘Patani Region’ from 27 artists have been selected—both locals and those engaged with issues relevant to the area in question. This exhibition is a kaleidoscope of different perspectives, methodologies, and responses developed throughout 13 years of experiences.

The “Patani region” refers to the geographical area known in modern-day Thailand as the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and parts of Songkla. The dominant cultural identity of this area is historically informed by Malay ethnicity and Islam. The recurring narrative of Patani—especially in the last 13 years (2004-2017)—resonates with images of violence. With this in mind, the preliminary question posed by this exhibition is: how are contemporary works of art and cultural representations of Patani presented: formally, narratively, verbally, and structurally?

By way of exploring the various ‘reflections’ of visual artists, photographers, documentary filmmakers, architects, poets and writers on the events and contemporary way of life of Patani, this exhibition is ultimately a revitalisation and expansion of contemporary art and cultural space. This exhibition does not claim to be a total representation of the voices of Patani, but it invites and provokes thought around the region, and the spaces in between the boundaries that define ‘us.’

As an introduction to the ‘Patani region,’ MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum will organise public events, seminars, screenings, and conversations with experts and artists throughout the exhibition’s duration. The exhibition opens 19 July 2017 and runs to 14 February 2018.