This exhibition invites visitors to explore the meanings of “masks” beyond their role as objects that conceal the face. Masks are also powerful tools that connect art, belief, spirituality, and identity.
From ritual objects to cultural symbols of expression, masks in Southeast Asia reflect not only the region’s rich ethnic diversity but also the deep-rooted beliefs, spiritual connections, and relationships between humans and the supernatural.
Organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) through the Office of the Permanent Secretary, in collaboration with the Thai Art and Craft Development Association and Silpakorn University, Who Wears Whom: The Masks of Southeast Asia examines the meanings, roles, and values of masks within the shared cultural contexts of ethnic groups and the region. The exhibition reflects the dynamic transmission of knowledge, the preservation of ritual forms, and the reinterpretation of masks in contemporary society.
The exhibition features:
- A display of masks from Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand — each with its own unique local story.
- Contemporary artworks inspired by masks, created by Thai and international artists who reinterpret masks within a modern social context.
Exhibition Dates: 5 – 17 August 2025
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Venue: Curved Wall, 3rd Floor, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
Opening Ceremony: Friday, 8 August 2025 at 5:00 PM
Journey through the world of masks to explore the beliefs, identities, and creativity of the peoples of Southeast Asia.
