Thailand has a vibrant contemporary art scene, capable of throwing up some impressive original and innovative works. Unsurprisingly, the scene has a fascinating history.
If you've ever wondered about the origins of the Thai contemporary art scene, who the artists were that started everything off, what motivated them and how they influenced others, the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre (BACC) will be holding a special exhibition on the subject, starting later this month.
"RIFTS: Thai Contemporary Artistic Practices In Transition, 1980s-2000s" begins Aug 30 and will run until Nov 24. The event, a must for the Thai contemporary art enthusiast, provides a compelling overview of the dramatic changes in Thai art over the last three decades or so.
The late 1980s is the period generally considered to mark the beginnings of this remarkable period of change, which went on to reach its creative peak in the 2000s. Many breakthrough artists came along during this time, daring to break with the traditional styles and attitudes, and instead introducing game-changing ideas and approaches to their art.
Around the same time, many independent art spaces were built, which helped to establish greater unity in the scene.
The exhibition will display 13 artists' works created during that period, spanning various forms: painting, sculpture, installation, photography and video art. Archive works from the 13 selected artists will also be on display. The featured artists are Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook, Chatchai Puipia, Chumpon Apisuk, Kamin Lertchaiprasert, Kamol Phaosawasdi, Manit Sriwanichpoom, Michael Shaowanasai, Montien Boonma, Navin Rawanchaikul, Pinaree Sanpitak, Prasong Luemuang, Rirkrit Tiravanija and Tawatchai Puntusawasdi.
Curated by Chol Janepraphaphan and Kasamaponn Saengsuratham, the exhibition will take place in the BACC's Main Gallery, on the 9th floor.
Visit bacc.or.th.
