Officials pose for a group photo after the opening ceremony.

XYZ Contemporary Art Exhibition kicks-off

The opening ceremony of the XYZ Contemporary Art Exhibition was held on Thursday at the Pakson Shopping Mall. The exhibition aims at promoting the works of local artists.
The opening ceremony was attended by artists, Lao’s celebrities apart from officials.
The vice president of the Lao Journalists’ Association, Mr Somsanouk Mixay, spoke at the opening ceremony and said such exhibitions will go a long way in promoting Lao talent.
The XYZ Art and Culture Centre is organising the exhibition and a representative of the organisation, Mr Tam Khounphouvong, said the event will help promote Lao’s art.
“The exhibition will add value and strengthen the local artists’ community. This space will inspire other artists to showcase their work – which is a blend of modernity and Lao’s long-held traditions,” he said.
The exhibition will have four separate zones devoted to photography, textiles, painting, and installation arts.
The exhibition will be held on the second floor of Pakson Shopping Mall from October 15 to October 25 from 9 am to 8 pm. Entry will be free.
This is a good chance for the public to see Lao textiles which tell evocative stories which are a part of Lao culture. Through their looms, the artists are conveying the importance of Lao culture and its lifestyle. It is important to appreciate and encourage them.
The public can also learn more about how art is created and get a peek into the life of the creators and collectors of artifacts from the north to the south of Laos, who have a wide range of experience with Lao textiles.
It’s a good chance to experience the feel of contemporary Lao culture through these textiles and to meet the new generation of artists who are currently studying painting at the National Institute of Fine Art.
Artworks by Luangprabang artists, especially Mr Souliyanh  Kirivong, Mr Vanasouk Khankeo, Mr Keolotfa  Silivong Artists will be on display.
Photographs by seven professional photographers - Adri Berger, Van Hai, Perier Micka, Alain Memoni, Jean Christophe Olry, Alan Liu, Krysada Binly, and Panusith Phounsiri will be showcased. Through their photographs, the viewers will get to see the artist’s perspective and see the story in a new light.
Introducing a new concept in the art industry in Laos, artists with passion and knowledge in installation art will display their works at the exhibition. They will highlight social and environmental issues. Be ready to see installation artists such as Noel Hernandez, Sengthong Vongphachanh, Singha Sihakhom, and Willie Xaiwouth.
Artists with experience in painting and also professors of the Lao National Institute of Fine Arts will be present. Another highlight is a collaboration with the Lao National Institute of Fine Arts to bring forth exquisite artworks by teachers.
Souliya Phoumivong, an artist, known for his videos – will also be there at the exhibition. He will combine filmed footage, stop-motion animation, and handmade clay models. He is the founder of Clay House Studio, the first stop motion studio in Laos, it’s a space for young artists to practice and acquire knowledge about art. He is also a lecturer at the National Institute of Fine Art in Vientiane. He has exhibited his artworks in many different countries such as Japan, Singapore, and Thailand.
Legendary artist Mr KhamSouk Keomingmeung, who bagged the National Artist of the Lao PDR-2015 award and the Outstanding Artist of the Lao PDR-2003 award, will also be present at the exhibition.

By Sisouphan Amphonephong
(Latest Update October 17, 2022)