This thesis critically analyses visual arts exchange between Australia and Malaysia from 1983 to 2001. In the last decade Australia's arts community has shown increased interest in contemporary Asian art. However there is little evidence of specific interest in Malaysian visual arts practice, despite strong associations between the two countries over many decades. Relations between Malaysia and Australia are problematised by complex political, cultural and religious factors, particularly evident over the last decade when diplomatic tensions escalated. Despite these factors, there has been little research on this subject and no major comprehensive critical analysis of cross-cultural visual arts exchange between the two countries. Although the last major visual arts exhibition from Malaysia to Australian state galleries took place between 1969 and 1970, there has been substantial interaction between artists, curators and arts institutions in both countries. From 1983 bilateral visual arts exchange activities expanded and diversified, particularly in the 1990s. Australia has been considered pivotal in assisting the development of contemporary arts in Malaysia. In this regard personal-professional connections on many levels performed an instrumental, if invisible, role in the realisation of exchange programs. This thesis examines issues of cross-cultural engagement and argues that personal-professional considerations are vital to achieving successful outcomes over a longer term period. While official institutions, such as the Australian High Commission in Malaysia, and other agencies in both countries have also been crucial in cultural exchange programs, the involvement of other non-government agencies and individuals has been particularly significant. In this thesis three case studies examine this nexus of government and non-government participants. The projects discussed demonstrate that although outcomes from artist-to-artist or institution-to-institution exchange may not be immediately apparent, benefits may become evident over an extended period of time. While undeniably more complex, projects that involve collaboration and reciprocity tend to yield successful outcomes and consolidate ongoing partnerships. In turn, such projects can provide models for further exchange activity. While not directly serving diplomatic agendas they may nevertheless benefit official and unofficial bilateral relations. In recent years Australian government policy has shifted regional priorities away from the South East Asian region. Nevertheless, while official cultural relations programs have diminished, many visual arts activities instigated between 1998 and 2001 continue to yield beneficial outcomes. This thesis argues that while limits may exist in government policy, programs and funding, collaborative and reciprocal visual arts exchange activities that involve cross-cultural enquiry and cooperation, supported by personal-professional connections, can affirm a positive Australian presence in the region and strengthen bilateral relationships at official and unofficial levels. / thesis (MVisualArts)--University of South Australia, 2004.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/173375 |
| Date | January 2004 |
| Creators | Stacey, Helen |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Rights | © 2004 Helen Joy Stacey |
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