Flowers usually have a knack of refreshing the viewer upon sight, but pairing them with unexpected materials can create a new dynamic beyond natural beauty. This curious mix of flowers with leather, neon lights and monk's bowls, among many other objects, is currently on display at the "Flowers, Rivers & Possibilities" exhibition until Nov 23 at The Peninsula Bangkok.
The artist behind the 12 floral-themed installations that adorn the hotel lobby and other indoor areas is none other than flower master Sakul Intakul. As The Peninsula's latest Artist in Residence, Sakul has fashioned sculptures with flower blossoms inspired by, and created with materials from, different communities and districts along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.
"This project was really interesting to do because there are lots of craft communities along the Chao Phraya River," says the 58-year-old artist. "The livelihoods of all these communities were fuelled by water, with the river or small klongs connected to them. Back then, the Chao Phraya River was like a highway. I wanted each of these installations to tell a story about that particular corner of Bangkok."
Each installation proves to be a quick culture lesson and also introduces more obscure locations locals may not be familiar with. One such spot is Baan Bat Monk Bowl village, a place where artisans still create alms bowls by hand and up to 50 bowls are produced each month. Spiritual Prosperity, which showcases a tower made of monk's bowls and a slinking line of marigolds, was inspired by Baan Bat. It is also one of Sakul's most memorable locations from this project.
Embrace.
Spiritual Prosperity.
"It was fun to walk around there and interact with the locals. It really inspires you to want to explore these communities more and support them," he says.
The more recognisable places range from Wat Pho and Pahurat to Pak Klong Talad flower market, the latter a main source of inspiration and supplies for the artist. Nevertheless, flowers do not take centre stage, they complement the array of materials in a nimble and intricate manner.
Lotuses are the featured flower in The Basket Of Offering, inspired by Pak Klong Talad, while small Thai florals such as the dok rak deck pieces like The Flow Of Love. This sculpture, made of water pipes and faucets with strings of dok rak running out of the tap, is one of the most playful and light-hearted from the exhibition. Inspired by Klong Thom market, one of the oldest street markets to hunt for second-hand goods, household equipment and souvenirs, the piece makes use of items that can easily be found on that street. Other popping pieces, such as Embrace, showcase the outstanding textile fabrics the Pahurat area is known for, with a sparse strip of orchids that decorate the piece.
Asked about the trend of sustainability and flowers, Sakul shares that he is keen to move towards that direction.
"The sustainability movement is something I want to talk about more," he says. "It's not about stopping the use of flowers completely, but we can stick to local flowers in order to reduce our carbon footprint. I don't believe in cutting out flowers completely. Excess is not always the answer and just one leaf can decorate a vase. Just like you cannot eat fake meat, flowers made of plastic are not something that can feed your soul. Flowers do serve a purpose."
"Flowers, Rivers & Possibilities" is on display at The Peninsula Bangkok until Nov 23.
Universal Reflection.
The Flow Of Love.
Sakul Intakul with Bell Of Consciousness.
Basket Of Offerings.
