Acts of Devotion

As children, the lessons learnt around the dining table are often our first. Before we can speak, we’re encountering a world of colours, textures and flavours. As we get older, phonetic sounds can be heard as we learn the names of things. The dining table is also where we first connect with family rituals and traditions. Perhaps there’s a blessing, a toast of thanks, a star ingredient used, or maybe it’s how food is prepared that makes it special.

For artist Mechelle Bounpraseuth, childhood memories and domestic rituals – especially related to her emigre family’s Lao culture – offer endless inspiration. Her work exudes colour, pleasure and vitality; at the same time, it speaks to a personal process of cultural introspection.

Newly commissioned for visitors of all ages to enjoy, Bounpraseuth’s exhibition,ສູູ້ສ້ Sou Sou, celebrates the home as an intimate place of learning, discovery and belonging.