My name is Uthit Atimana. I am the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts in charge of the Art Museum, Chiang Mai University. I am delighted to be kindly assigned by the Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai to report on the event today and for the kind acceptance of Your Excellency Mr. Andreas von Stechow, the Ambassador of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand to inaugurate the Art Exhibition on “Identities VS Globalization?” at the Art Museum, Chiang Mai University, today.

The Art Museum, Chiang Mai University, has been central in efforts to exhibit art and cultural works. We have been organizing events on various forms of arts and cultures in the country and abroad. This art exhibition bears the precious occasion that residents in Chiang Mai province and around will have a chance to appreciate more than 60 artworks from artists of 10 ASEAN countries. The event is organized by the Heinrich Böll Foundation in conjunction with the Art Museum, Chiang Mai University. It is our principal mission to offer academic services to Chiang Mai society and promote artistic and cultural exchange among general public for both educational purposes and the illustration of important social issues.

I would like to convey my sincere thanks to Your Excellency Mr. Andreas von Stechow, the Ambassador of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany to Thailand, the Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai, the Consuls and representatives of the Consulates in Chiang Mai, distinguished artists and all other distinguished guests for being present here at the inauguration of the art exhibition. I would also like to thank the Heinrich Böll Foundation - Thailand & South East Asia Regional Office and all staff members for making the art exhibition possible.