Displays of artworks from the permanent collections of state and national galleries are often overlooked. Critics tend to flock to a crowded calendar of blockbusters and temporary shows. These may offer greater novelty and relevance for current events. But this isn’t always true.

New Asian Art at the National Gallery of Australia is a case in point. Tucked away on the second floor, it would be easy to miss this showcase for new acquisitions and collection highlights.

But the culturally, stylistically and materially diverse display is a welcome treat for those who take the time to wander this far into the building.

The weight of moving images

Two groups of related works bracket the space, distinct in aesthetic but mirrored in concept.

A suite of new acquisitions created between 2012 and 2016 by Thai-born contemporary artist Korakrit Arunanondchai takes up one end of the gallery.

Visitors are invited to lay back on denim cushions to watch his 25-minute video. Painting with history in a room filled with people with funny names 3 (2014-15) is a multilingual reflection on globalisation, myth and identity.

Arunanondchai uses sculptural elements to lend weight to moving images. I found similarities with fellow Bangkok-based film director Apichatpong Weerasethakul, whose meditative video installation A Conversation with the Sun (Afterimage)........

© The Conversation