USM, PENANG, 6 April 2017 - The 'Two Series of Artworks from Thailand' is the result of a collaboration between the Faculty of Fine Arts, Songkhla Rajabhat University; Schools of the Arts, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Muzium & Galeri Tuanku Fauziah (MGTF) USM, showcasing the fine artworks and assisting in the exchange of cultures between the two universities.

The exhibition, held at MGTF, showcases the artworks of two lecturers from the Songkhla Rajabhat University, Thailand, namely Bandhita Worasri with her artwork entitled 'Spice of Happiness' and Rapeephat Phonrattanapaiboon with his artwork entitled 'Tree of Spirits.'

According to the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Dato' Dr. Muhamad Jantan, who is currently the Acting Vice-Chancellor, it would be good to have this event on an annual basis, and he hopes that the organisers from the Thai institutions of higher learning can hold similar activities and accommodate the artists from USM to strengthen bilateral relations through arts in the future.

Bandhita said, the art collections were inspired from her diary called life happiness, which contains happenings at home as her home is a real personal space which includes all types of atmosphere, objects and even her pet.

She believes that the ordinary elements in life could be a part of happiness, and this adds value to create a special kind of happiness, to reduce sorrows in the mind, to deter people from the struggles that are beyond their capabilities and to offer spiritual security.

Meanwhile, Rapeepat expresses his thoughts in the artistic language as well. The 'Tree of Spirits' reflects his tranquillity of mind after being stimulated by all those uncontrollable external agents, and showing the representation of his feelings and emotions through the choices of colours, techniques and crayons, which have an effect that is harmonious and boundless.

Also present USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Development Affairs and Alumni), Professor Dato' Dr. Adnan Hussein; Director of MGTF USM, Zolkurnian Hassan; Heads of Departments, lecturers and students.

The exhibition is now open to the public at the Galeri Sementara, MGTF beginning 3rd April until 5th May 2017.

Text: Nur Shahidatul Shahira Zakaria (Intern, USM School of Communications)