Offering 2 2023, ash, glue, acrylic on burned canvas, 110 x 110 cm
16albermarle Project Space presents ទេយ្យទាន | Teyyatean by Cambodian contemporary artist Than Sok (born 1984).
Spanning two decades of work, the exhibition showcases Than Sok’s richly conceptual and experimental practice. Teyyatean explores the interplay between religious practices and the contemporary world, considering political, economic, and social contexts. From a gracefully critical, observational standpoint, the artist prompts reflection on the need for ritual, belief, and sacrifice, while avoiding any sense of opposition.
Buddhism, widespread across southeast Asia, holds a central place in Than’s work, shaping Khmer culture and values in Cambodia. Since its ancient origins, Buddhism has evolved, adapting to each country’s circumstances. In Cambodia, cultural transmission primarily occurs through monks, who embody Buddhist behaviours, and artists, regarded as visionaries with spiritual associations.
Teyyatean, meaning ‘giving alms,’ examines this evolving concept at the heart of Buddhist practice. Cambodian monkhood, traditionally a coming-of-age ritual for young men to build merit for their parents, is now seen as a way to escape poverty, gain education, and engage with secularity.
The artist's earlier works reflect his personal experience serving in a monastery from 1992 to 1993. His practice has evolved to critically investigate the materials and rituals of spiritual practices in Cambodia, employing symbolism and decontextualisation of religious objects. More recently, his work delves into contemporary issues and Cambodia’s recovery from trauma and political disruption following the Pol Pot era and the Khmer Rouge.
Teyyatean presents works across video, sculpture, installation, drawing, and painting. Featuring earlier ephemeral works recommissioned for the exhibition alongside newly commissioned pieces, the exhibition offers profound insights into the central place of Buddhism in southeast Asia and its transformation in the modernising world.
OPENING WEEKEND FESTIVITIES
Artist Floor Talk & Opening Reception | Saturday 27 July 2024
Please join us to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. Opening festivities will include a floor talk by visiting artist Than Sok, and a traditional Khmer dance (Robam Buong Suong) performed by Annabel Sokla. The exhibition will be officially opened by celebrated artist, Phaptawan Suwannakudt, whose works explore similar Buddhist concepts.
3pm–3:30pm | Artist Floor Talk
3:30pm–6:30pm | Opening Reception
Artist Presentation | Sunday 28 July 2024
Explore the evolving idea of Teyyatean, a concept at the heart of Buddhist practice, with artist Than Sok. In this talk, Sok will guide attendees through his personal experiences as a monk. He will discuss his relationships with Buddhism and Cambodian cultural practices and how these influences are reflected in his art.
2pm–3pm
GALLERY VISITS
Visits from university and senior high school student groups are welcome at 16albermarle Project Space during gallery hours.
Please contact gallerymanager@16albermarle.com to book your free visit.