Mechelle Bounpraseuth presents ‘ສູ້ສູ້ Sou Sou’, a solo show at the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Encounter towers of mangosteens, big bowls of dragon fruits and giant stacks of canned food in this new interactive exhibition that bursts with colour, memory and ritual.

Mechelle Bounpraseuth is known for her hand-built, glossy ceramics depicting food and other homely treasures. In this exhibition of newly commissioned works, large-scale ceramic sculptures honour the family dining table and the labour of preparing and sharing food. Fruit – especially the hard-to-get kind from her Lao parents’ homeland – is given sacred status and celebrated as a currency of love.

Visitors of all ages are invited to gather at tables or ສາດ saats(Lao floormats) to share the flavours, dishes and stories that are unique to them. Create an offering to leave on the steps of an elaborate fruit shrine or decorate your own canned-food label to add to the shelves.

Drawing on childhood memories and family rituals, the exhibition places special emphasis on the role of young people in the continuation of culture. Its title, ສູ້ສູ້ Sou Sou, is a Lao phrase of encouragement meaning ‘you can do it!’ or ‘stay strong!’. When expressed to children, it is often voiced as a quiet but steady reminder to ‘keep going, don’t lose heart’.

Text courtesy of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

ສູ້ສູ້ Sou Sou runs from 14 March 2026 – February 2027 at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Naala Nura building, Lower level 2. Entry is free.

Image: Mechelle Bounpraseuth, concept painting for Mechelle Bounpraseuth: ສູ້ສູ້ Sou Sou 2025 © Mechelle Bounpraseuth.