Such original projects are central to the Triennial’s theme, said Mr. Tan: “That’s what commissioning is. You have to dream together.” One of the most striking commissioned works is “Follow Your Heart Wholeheartedly,” a large-scale sculptural installation by Malaysian artist Anne Samat. Trained as a weaver, Ms. Samat drew on Southeast Asia’s rich textile traditions to create four wall sculptures and a standing figure—all of them bristling with toy soldiers, rakes, metal washers and other household items.