Last month Mary opened the Southeast Asian Art and Cultural Exhibition at the Legislative Assembly to celebrate 40 years of the Association of South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) dialogue partnership with Australia. The exhibition showcased an array of art and artefacts from all the associated countries, including small samples from each culture.
The reception was officially launched when Mary hit the gong and visitors were then able to enjoy delicious food and performances, again representing the ASEAN Nations.
‘It was a lovely change to see the Exhibition Room full of lovely artefacts that illustrate the various traditions from ASEAN Nations, Mary said.
‘It was great to experience the vast array of cultures all at the same time and it inspired one to learn more about these nations which reside on our doorstep, Mary said.
'It is important to celebrate with our friendly international neighbours the importance of regionalisation and to recognise strong political and economic relationships,’ Mary said.
Gallery 2014 Image 26
