ART REVIEW
Framing a big city
A new exhibition focusing on Chiang Mai isn't just about art
- Published: 13/04/2011 at 09:03 AM
- Newspaper section: Life
'Chiang Mai Now!" isn't an art exhibition in the conventional sense - whether that's good or not, art critics will have huge homework deciding. It is rather, according to the curator, an exploration of contemporary Chiang Mai through cultural activities,. And instead of admiring paintings or sculptures, visitors will be updated on a bird-conservation project, for instance, or will witness a group of urban cyclists who are campaigning for a more bicycle-friendly city planning. Nearby, a tooth-achingly bright ice-cream shop, conceived by celeb-artist Udom "Nose" Taepanich, works more or a less as a centrepiece of this eclectic showcase.
Angkrit Ajchariyasophon, a Chiang Rai native who graduated from Chiang Mai University's Fine Arts Faculty, runs a noodle shop that doubles as an art gallery in his hometown. A guest curator for "Chiang Mai Now!", he aims to present the picture of Chiang Mai through the people who are working to define and improve a city that's both a living space and a tourist destination - a fantasy place as well as a real one.
The exhibition had a opening last week at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), and Angkrit took time off to talk to us about the exhibition.
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About the author
- Writer: Kong Rithdee
- Position: Deputy Editor
