As this is the year that Malaysia chairs the Association of South East Asian Nations, Bank Negara Malaysia is building on the close relationship that exists between countries of the region. In keeping with the official 2015 theme “Our People, Our Community, Our Vision”, Art of ASEAN: Our Exhibition brings together works from all 10 members of ASEAN. The creativity of more than 30 regional rising stars has been harnessed in a display of community values and the closeness of art to ASEAN’s vision.

The artists have used a wide variety of styles and media to convey their different messages, covering themes as diverse as environmental awareness and nation building. Divided into three sections, the works include paintings, collages, photographs, drawings and sculptures. The exhibition complements ASEAN’s aim of forging alliances through collaboration. In addition to providing a valuable opportunity for display, engagement and understanding among talented young artists, it is a visual manifestation of a constantly evolving region.

The exhibition encourages appreciation of art and culture, as well as interconnectivity between the member countries. Despite the physical proximity of these ASEAN countries, it is rare to find works from all 10 nations assembled in one place.