The Management Processes of Pattani Art Space

Abstract

The objective of this article aims to study the activities and management processes of Pattani Art Space, Pattani Province by collecting data from relevant documents, non-participatory observation and interviews of 8 artists in the Patani Art Space group. Data were analyzed by content analysis. The results of the study found that Patani Art Space was established since 2014 as a common area for artist groups from the three southern border provinces of Thailand to exhibit their art works, to promote their cultures as well as to organize other diverse activities following personal purpose. The instant activities of Patani Art Space include such as art exhibitions, lectures, talks, workshops, short film screenings, festivals and rental venue for events. Most of the activities reflects the problem of violence in the three southern border provinces of Thailand through the perspective of local people who have truly experienced the issue. In addition, Patani Art Space also has exhibition activities in other areas both domestically and abroad. In regards of the area management of Patani Art Space, it was found that a decent operational system had not yet sufficiently settled due to the obstacle of income. Therefore, some necessary elements such as curators, restaurants, and exhibition buildings were initially set up. In the future, Patani Art Space prospects to provide a space for joint activities (Co-working Space) and art residency for artists from different areas. Furthermore, there is also the initiative to carry out a biennial art festival not only in order to prove the potential of artists in the three southern border provinces but also to persuade more people to visit the area bringing income to the community. All the operations of Patani Art Space have resulted in people from outside the area having a better understanding the situation of the three southern border provinces through art. It also approves people to realize the diversity of Malayu art. And leads to acceptance of diversity in beliefs, gender, culture, etc., which is the element for artists from the three southern border provinces in Thailand to join the contemporary art group on the national stage.