The first in the series takes place this Sunday (July 23) from 11am to 12.30pm. Titled “Experience from Malaysia”, it will be given by Badrolhisham Mohamad Tahir, the current curator of Galeri Petronas, a leading private gallery in Malaysia’s capital, with Dr Toeingam Guptabutra from Silpakorn University serving as moderator.

Regionally and internationally recognised as an active curator, Tahir is also a veteran lecturer and researcher, as well as a productive writer/editor. His distinct curatorial practices include the Southeast Asia Triennial, Jakarta 2012 and 2016; and Young Malaysian Artist: New Object(ion) series 1–3. On Sunday, the graduate of Goldsmiths College, UK, will discuss not only his background, past work and the environment of contemporary arts in Malaysia, but also open the floor to questions and reflections on the art scene in Malaysia and Thailand.

Next Thursday (July 27), Margaret Shiu, a renowned cultural activist of Taiwan, will give a talk on “Experience from Taiwan”, from 4 to 6pm with Dr Paramaporn Sirikulchayanont, the director of Silpakorn University’s Art Centre as moderator.

Shiu found the Bamboo Curtain Studio in New Taipei City. Located inside a former farm, this well-known cultural venue has become a model for its active role in promoting an exchange programme on contemporary arts, as well as in conserving and regenerating a new context for old valuable architectural spaces through art and creative activities.

Despite a background in economics, Shiu went into arts in the ’80s and became a prominent figure in Taiwan. Thanks to her contacts in the administration, several old industrial buildings have been saved from the bulldozers and turned into creative spaces for artistic activities. Moreover, she has initiated many projects on artists’ role in cultural, social and environmental development and continues to network with international art organisations.

Both programmes are suitable for artists, those in art management, visual art and cultural regeneration circles, as well as the general public who have an interest in regional and international art and cultural scenes. Besides the subject of their own organisation and personal experiences, both speakers will share the situation of contemporary art and culture in Malaysia and Taiwan respectively, and open the floor to the local audiences to both share and ask questions.

Both public lectures are free and conducted mainly in English, with Thai translation. No reservation is required. For more information, contact education@bacc.or.th, or call (02) 214 6630 extension 519. You can also join the conversation at the “bacceducation” page on Facebook.