Patani Semasa

PATANI SEMASA: an exhibition on contemporary art from the Golden Peninsula. Artworks as well as cultural representations of the 'Patani Region' by 28 artists, both local and those engaged with issues relating to the area, have been selected. This exhibition is a kaleidoscope of different perspectives, methodologies, and responses developed throughout 13 years of experience.

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 conflict. With this in mind, the preliminary question posed by this exhibition is: in what way are the 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 spaces.