Perspectives:Asia | The Asia Pacific Triennial: Looking back, looking forward | Griffith Asia Insights

On Thursday 3 April 2025, a special Perspectives Asia event held at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in South Brisbane, marked a moment of reflection and anticipation for one of Australia’s most influential art exhibitions—the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT). Now in its 11th iteration, the Triennial has been a unique platform for showcasing contemporary art from across the Asia-Pacific region since its inception in 1993.

On a night that blended reflection, celebration, and forward-thinking dialogue, the Griffith Asia Institute and Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) marked the 20th anniversary of the Perspectives Asia series with a compelling event dedicated to the legacy and future of the APT.

Opened by QAGOMA Director Chris Saines, the event began with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, paying respect to the Turrbal, Yuggera, and Yugarabul peoples—the Traditional Custodians of the land within Brisbane—and recognising the enduring contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to art and culture.

APT: A Platform of Artistic and Cultural Exchange

For over three decades, APT has represented a dynamic and evolving space where art intersects with cultural identity, political narratives, and diplomacy. Its evolution mirrors broader shifts in Australia’s cultural and diplomatic policies, with a clear commitment to inclusive representation and regionally grounded artistic practice.

QAGOMA curator, Reuben Keehan, opened the panel discussion by reflecting on APT’s roots in cultural exchange and the role historical and political contexts have played in shaping its direction. Former AGSA Director, Rhana Devenport ONZM recalled the transformative influence APT had on her career and the broader professional landscape of contemporary curating in Australia.

UQ Associate Professor, Dr. Morris Low offered insight into the complexities of language and communication in cross-cultural art exchanges, noting how curators and artists have continually navigated these challenges to foster genuine connection and understanding.

Pioneers, Performances, and Perceptions

The early editions of APT introduced works that were daring, socially engaged, and often unexpected—particularly performance art that challenged Australian audiences’ perceptions of the region. Artists such as Dang and Roberto Villanova made lasting impressions with works that brought urgent social and political issues to the fore.

APT’s ability to act as a “welcoming space”—a gallery open to provocation, empathy, and cross-cultural dialogue—has helped redefine how audiences engage with contemporary Asia-Pacific art.

Japan’s Enduring Influence

Japan emerged as a particularly pivotal player in the early years of APT, initiating key exhibitions and artist relationships that laid the groundwork for a robust Asia-Pacific art collection in Queensland. These early collaborations highlighted the value of long-term relationship-building and set a precedent for future triennials.

Education, Engagement, and Shifting Cultural Landscapes

One of the more sobering reflections of the night was the decline in general interest in Asian studies across universities—a trend contrasted with growing engagement from Asian students themselves. Despite these challenges, the arts continue to serve as a form of soft diplomacy, fostering enduring cultural ties and offering new modes of understanding through creative practice.

Curatorial strategies have also shifted in response to evolving social and political climates, with a move away from large academic conferences towards smaller, performance-driven, and intimate forms of engagement. This new model allows for deeper artist-audience interaction and reflects a broader trend towards inclusivity and immediacy in public programming.

Looking Ahead: APT’s Continuing Role

As APT looks to the future, its success will hinge on its ability to remain inclusive, relevant, and artist-centred. The triennial’s strength lies in its long-standing relationships—with artists, communities, and institutions—and its commitment to representing underrepresented voices and practices.

Key acquisitions by QAGOMA have cemented its position as a leader in Asia-Pacific contemporary art, and the institution remains dedicated to using its collections and programming to address contemporary social and cultural challenges.

Though Dr. Caroline Turner—a foundational figure in APT’s development—was absent due to illness, her legacy was acknowledged throughout the evening. Her vision continues to inspire new generations of artists, curators, and cultural leaders.

Final Thoughts

The opening for Perspectives Asia 20th anniversary celebration was more than a retrospective—it was a reaffirmation of the power of art to bridge divides, challenge perceptions, and create space for shared understanding. APT stands as a living, evolving testament to what is possible when cultural institutions lead with courage, collaboration, and curiosity.

As the Asia-Pacific region continues to shift and transform, so too will the art that emerges from it. And APT—alongside dedicated institutions like QAGOMA and Griffith Asia Institute—will be there to welcome it.

GALLERY

The evening served as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of cultural dialogue and artistic exchange in shaping regional identity. Below, a selection of images from the event, capturing some of the highlights and memorable moments from the Perspectives:Asia gathering.