Back for its 11th edition, the Affordable Art Fair returns to Hong Kong from May 16 to May 19, 2024. 

This year, the Fair is themed “I am an art collector,” emphasising its role in providing first-time art collectors the opportunity to purchase artworks for under THB 473,000. This will also mark the 25th anniversary of the international Affordable Art Fair, celebrating its support for the art ecosystem and fostering up-and-coming artists.

“We believe collecting art should not be unreachable,” said Regina Zhang, Fair Director. “Affordable Art Fair has been a very uniquely fun, approachable, and transparent platform that democratises the art world for all. If you aspire to be an art collector, this is the fair to go to.”

Over 90 international and local galleries and emerging artists will be showcasing thousands of contemporary artworks. Highlights of Affordable Art Fair’s programme this year include the Special Project and Young Talent Hong Kong, spotlighting established and rising artists alike. Family-friendly experiences will also be available, igniting a passion for art in the younger generation.

Special Project

In Special Project, artists from different disciplines come together to create six exclusive large-scale installations and experiences for Fair visitors. Delve into the local side-alley bars with Jonathan Jay Lee’s speakeasy bar “Neon,” featuring the Sham Shui Po neighbourhood and Hong Kong-inspired cocktails crafted by Kiyoshi Hoshimi-Caines, previously of Yardbird and RONIN, co-presented with the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

“A Feast of Chinese Ink Painting” features five artists, each bringing their take on the medium. Keep an eye out for live paintings by Cai Tianmei conducted on-site at the “dining table” every morning and afternoon. Algeria-born artist Ceet Fouad will be adorning a wall with his signature “chicanos” or chicken figures in his own Special Project to provide a satirical commentary on today’s society and demonstrate the power of graffiti to connect with people.

Other Special Projects at Affordable Art Fair include Ewan David Eason with TAG Fine Arts’ “Season’s Change,” where Eason’s lenticular leaves evoke the changing of seasons as visitors walk past. Sanctum Gallery will showcase a 3D rendition inspired by Keith Ancog’s Envisage, drawing visitors to appreciate spontaneity and free-spirited living. Korean artist ChanBoo Jung creates his signature bear sculptures with discarded straws which, to him, resemble seeds.

Young Talent Hong Kong

Affordable Art Fair’s Young Talent Hong Kong uplifts seven local artists in “Landscape Mindscape,” curated by Peony Hung. The exhibition is separated into three distinct spaces: the royal azure room, the rust-red room, and the timeless white room. In each room, the artists showcase their personal narratives and perspectives through their mediums.

The participating artists include Apple Cheng Wing Yee, who explores the personas and settings of cartoon characters, urban lifestyles, and landscapes through oil paintings; Edmond Li Suen Wai, a calligraphy teacher who teaches around Hong Kong; Irene Lee See-Wing, who specializes in screen printing and mono printing; and Peony Hung Po-pop, who translates everyday moments and surroundings into poetic expressions and paintings.

They will be joined by Rylee Tsang Tsz-Wan, who explores interpersonal relationships through ceramic artworks; Scott Chan Kin-Yip, who explores different materials and mediums while drawing inspiration from street culture and skateboarding; and Wallis Chung Wing-Sze, who uses pastel colours to create a surreal childhood-like experience for viewers while diving into the uncanny features of the cityscape.

Family-friendly activities

Affordable Art Fair collaborates with various partners to provide fun, family-friendly activities for guests. Together with Art Loop, children aged 4–12 years old can take part in educational art tours and workshops, where they can learn to appreciate art and develop critical thinking skills, as well as create their own mini project that will be showcased at the Fair. Families can also enjoy on-site photo-taking services by Venture Studios at their booth, with proceeds going to Mother’s Choice.

How to get tickets to Affordable Art Fair?

Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite. During the advanced online sales period until May 15, Opening Night & Fair Passes (valid from May 16–19) are priced at THB 1,610, General Admission tickets are priced at THB 923, while Concession tickets (for senior citizens aged 65 or above and full-time students) are priced at THB 686. Add-ons like the Children’s Art Tour with Art Loop, Jonathan Jay Lee’s speakeasy bar “Neon,” and Art Consultant Service are also available at Eventbrite.

Those purchasing two tickets or more can enjoy the Family Morning promotion, where each ticket gets discounted to THB 852. Take note that children under 16 years old can enter the Fair for free accompanied by an adult with an invitation or paid ticket. Tickets will also be available at the door from May 16–19 with prices marked up by roughly 10%. Buy your tickets to Affordable Art Fair while you can still enjoy the discount!

[Hero and featured image credit: Affordable Art Fair]

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Art021, founded as part of the Shanghai International Art Festival in 2013, is set to redefine the traditional fair model in Hong Kong this 2024.

Art021 was founded by three business entrepreneurs: Kylie Ying, Bao Yifeng, and David Chau. The group has established three international art fairs held in Mainland China, including Art021 in Shanghai, Jingart in Beijing, and DnA in Shenzhen. The first of the three festivals, Art021, has always succeeded in bringing together Asian art circles. On 7-10 November, 2024, the 12th Art021 Contemporary Art Fair will take place at Shanghai Exhibition Centre.

Shanghai art fair Art021 is coming to Hong Kong for the first time this summer

Putting DnA Shenzhen on hold, the group will now focus on Art021 Hong Kong instead, as it receives some financial support from the government’s Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund. The main differentiation from the more globally renowned counterparts, Art Basel and Art Central Hong Kong, this upcoming event emphasises small galleries from Mainland China, the Middle East, and the Global South.

“Western artists are well received by collectors in China, but the reception of Chinese artists in the more traditional art markets in America or Europe has not been as enthusiastic,” says David Chau.

Chau also added that the group aims to redefine the traditional art fair blueprint by having lots of public installations and exhibitions across the city. There will also be no pre-event political content reviews like in the mainland version.

Art021 will arrive in Hong Kong this summer, most likely in July, as an invitation-only fair.

Find out more via Art021.

[Hero and featured image credit: Art021 Official]

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Explore Bangkok’s creative circle at these exciting art venues. Here are the art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this April 2024.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are four art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this April 2024.

The best art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this April 2024

‘Another Me’ by Buakow Phasom, Suvimol Pongsamrit, and Pang Torsuwan

A lot of things in the world can bring you down — expectations from people around you, judgments you have on yourself, comparisons making you look at yourself as less than. When looking in the mirror, who is that girl you see staring straight back at you? Three female artists present “another” version of themselves through their art. We all have that someone hiding inside; the one living your dreams, the one more free, not bound by daily responsibilities. Let that person out with this new exhibition.

This exhibition is on display at Central: The Original Store until 28 April, 2024.

‘Illusion of Stability’ by Wal

Wal’s collection of 30 oil paintings accumulated over the past five years are all centred on one topic: stability. One of the basic needs of human beings is undeniably emotional security. Because we’re all actively seeking to anchor our soul onto something, whether it be religions, wealth, status, or institutions, Wal conveys this emptiness and insecurity through powerful symbolism in his inaugural solo exhibition.

The exhibition is on show at RCB Galleria, River City Bangkok until APRIL 23, 2024.

‘The Visitors’ by Giacomo de Pass

Giacomo de Pass is a renowned French painter and sculptor who had the chance to spend time in Koh Samui during the pandemic lockdown. Now at 85 years old, Giacomo presents his solo exhibition of 31 vibrant gouache and mixed media works created in Thailand between 2021 and 2022. Bizarre creatures, recognisable cartoon characters, and Thai mythical characters exist side by side as the artist depicts the clash of cultures during his time as a visitor in Thailand.

The exhibition is on show at SAC Gallery until May 4, 2024.

‘Timeless Muse’ by MRKREME

The Kooky World that MRKREME creates houses six furry monsters, all of whom bear different responsibilities. His first solo exhibition takes viewers into a whimsical realm that encapsulates the 1970-1980s, into the mystery of time that means more than just numbers on the clock. A riddle of time awaits for everyone to solve.

The exhibition is on show at RCB Photographers’ Gallery, River City Bangkok until April 28, 2024.

‘Longevity: an Abstract Conversation’

‘Ars longa, vita brevis,’ is the main idea behind the exhibition by 11 talented female artists. The short lifespan of humans is always a topic of discussion, and although lifespans in Thailand have increased in current times, this isn’t directly correlated to happiness. The artists look into the concept of longevity through art, expressing the twists and turns with both vibrant and subtle shades.

The exhibition is on show at Four Seasons Art Space by MOCA Bangkok until June 30, 2024. The artists are Aimi Kaiya, Baisri, BeChanida, Chayanich Muangthai, Duenchayphoochana Phooprasert, Jiratchaya Pripwai, Ketkarn Damrongwattanapokin, MM. Kosum, Morakot Ketklao, Rungploy Lorpaitoon, and Sudaporn Teja.

The best art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this March 2024

‘….With A Time Capsule’ by Chanathip Chuenburong, Toon Kaewkird, and Napol Isaracheewa

Art exhibitions in Bangkok see a wide array of mediums, but wood sculptures are certainly one of the more under-appreciated artforms. ‘….With A Time Capsule” is a collection of memories by three artisans, Chanathip Chuenburong, Toon Kaewkird, and Napol Isaracheewa, who are translating special moments throughout their lives, carved into wood. As they portray their experiences and childhood memories into their work, it has turned the exhibition into a sort of time capsule, a medium of communication that can be used to look back and reminisce.

The exhibition is on show at Central: The Original Store until 17 March. You can find more information via their website.

‘Somewhere Only We Know’ by Art of Hongtae

‘Somewhere Only We Know’ takes you on an adventure to a magical, unknown realm that will make you feel a bit of everything. With citizens of the realm being cloud tufts with no faces, it can feel like a dream, somewhat rooted in reality. It can be warm and relaxing, but at the same time feels lonely and disconnected — like laying back in a field, looking at the sky, and thinking what those clouds are shaped like. This solo exhibition marks the debut of the highly talented artist, ‘Hongtae’ Konthorn Taecholarn, also known as ‘Art of Hongtae.’

The exhibition is on display from 15 March – 21 April 2024 at at RCB Galleria 4, 2nd floor, River City Bangkok. You can find more information via the website.

‘Chalotte’s Castle’ by Mackcha

Step into Queen Chalotte’s magical castle, located in a beautiful kingdom under the sea. If you want to feel the fantasy and be transported to another world, the artist is doing exactly that as she transforms the venue into a castle interior. You’ll walk through hallways, the living room, quarters, a throne room, and feel the underwater opulence Queen Chalotte sees on the daily. ‘Chalotte’s Castle’ is the second solo exhibition by Mackcha (Chararat Saraaporn).

The exhibition is on show until 28 April at Trendy Gallery, River City Bangkok. You can find more information via the website.

‘Ghidorah’ by LOBOBOY EB, JOKER EB, and Tawan Wattuya

One of the titan monsters, Ghidorah is hailed as the God of Destruction, having only lost to Godzilla in a tight battle. The three-headed winged creature has the power to obliterate cities in the blink of an eye, and is capable of immense regeneration. Artists LOBOBOY EB, JOKER EB, and Tawan Wattuya are inspired by this godly being, harnessing their destructive power into art, with a statue of the Ghidorah (not to scale) as the star of the exhibition.

The exhibition is on display until 31 March. You can find more information via the website.

The best art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this January 2024

‘Nine Plus Five Works’ by Michel Auder

Michel Auder is a filmmaker and artist producing works since the 1960s. He’s known for non-linear storytelling, as his visuals offer different interpretations of many stories without each being tied to one other. This time, expect bright colours and vibrancy, questioning the lines between fantasy and reality. Auder’s works will be displayed in the newly-opened art venue Bangkok Kunsthalle in Chinatown.

The exhibition is on show at Bangkok Kunsthalle until 11 February, 2024. Find out more via the website.

‘Conspiracy’ by Phapat Seenaem

Every place, every era has its own conspiracy. This solo exhibition by Thai artist Phapat Seenaem takes you on an adventure of many conspiracy theories, questioning what is deemed to be rational, as well as the beliefs and traditions of the east and west. Whether something is real or still a conspiracy can be questioned, and we’re embarking on this journey filled with mysteries together.

The exhibition is on display at 333Gallery till 31 January, 2023. You can find out more via the website.

‘Matrilineal’ by Jakkai Siributr

Focusing on womanhood and the challenges women face in a patriarchal society, ‘Matrilineal’ is a project wherein Siributr explores the role of significant female figures in his own family. Shown is the collection of works made from reassembled and repurposed garments once belonging to his mum, aunts, and grandmother. The exhibition is also accompanied by various scheduled workshops, whether Ikebana or Kintsugi workshops.

The exhibition is on show at 100Tonson Foundation until May 26, 2024. Find out more via the website.

‘Goldie & Friends’

Goldie & Friends is an international group show from British artist Goldie and his dear fellows: Futura, Mr Brainwash, Bisco Smith, Mode 2, .Epod, and Inkie. The heart of the exhibition is Goldie’s new Arrows series, featuring an arrow that serves to convey direction, movement, and energy. The exhibition also highlights the dialogues that have developed among the artist friendships.

The exhibition is one show at Aurum Gallery until January 28, 2024. Find out more via the website.

‘Come Rain or Shine’

Catch the last glimpse of the exhibition before ‘Come Rain or Shine’ ends this month. Amid the celebratory atmosphere, nine artists come together to ponder on the unsuccessful stories in this fast-paced life we’re living. It serves not to delve into disappointment but to embrace the time of defeat just like we do to success. In other words, it’s a moment to prepare for the next sprint in 2024.

The exhibition shows the work of nine artists: Art of Hongtae, Chickenmew, D-Jai Kosiyabong, Nut Dao, Thireq Pecko, Tuna Dunn, UnderHatDaddy, Vachboy, and Wichuda Khuntijit. On show at RCB Galleria 1, River City Bangkok until January 21, 2024. Find out more via the website.

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand. 

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World-renowned pop artist Philip Colbert makes exclusive art installations for the Siam Paragon Ultrasonic Water Festival 2024, and we’ve got the inside scoop.

We all know that Siam Paragon is a world-class shopping destination. Whether it’s for Thais or visitors across the globe, this luxurious mall is the place where everyone checks out. And since the Thai New Year, Songkran is coming up, Siam Paragon has decided to host the ultimate Ultrasonic Water Festival 2024. Teaming up with Kasikorn Bank, Siam Paragon has also joined hands with the one and only Philip Colbert, where he’s here to create the first-ever showcase in Bangkok- Songkran Lobster Wonderland. From 9 to 16 April 2024, visitors can expect various hyper-pop sculptures right in the heart of Bangkok at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon. And some of his works will be here until June 2024.

[All images courtesy of Siam Paragon]

Now, you may wonder “What’s up with the lobster cartoons?” Well, the Scottish-born artist has always had a keen fascination with this marine creature. With that, he’s created a massive following for his vibrant and playful lobster alter-egos. Besides having a global fan base, Colbert has collaborated with various luxury brands like Rolex, Montblanc, Christian Louboutin, and COMME des GARÇONS. He’s even exhibited his art at the Saatchi Gallery in London, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale in Naples, and the Whitestone Gallery in Singapore. Find out more about Colbert and his art installation for Siam Paragon’s Ultrasonic Water Festival 2024 below. 

Philip Colbert on his collaboration with Siam Paragon

Tell us about your collaboration with Siam Paragon.

First of all, this is my first time in Thailand, and I’d like to thank Siam Paragon for inviting me to hop on this project in Bangkok. Both sides were super enthusiastic, but I believe this is just the start of an interesting relationship. I honestly took a deep dive into Thai culture, history, and architecture. Therefore, what I try to portray in these art installations is a mix of my work with the essence of Thailand. 

Explain some of your installations showcased in your Lobster Wonderland in Bangkok. 

I was really inspired by the Songkran festival itself, hence, the elephants, the water, the flowers, and the water pistols. So, one of the things I did was create a series of sculptures of lobsters riding on elephants. I often do lobsters on horses. I like references to old historical paintings such as the figures on horses, and since I’ve never done an elephant before, the idea of a grand sculpture of a lobster riding an elephant holding a water gun was cool. It marries Thai tradition with unexpected humour, and not only does it pay homage to Thailand’s heritage but also integrates the vibrancy of the Songkran water festival.

Besides that, there’s the Lobstar Octopus sculpture that I’ve done before, where the lobster is disguised in an octopus costume. But this time, there’s water coming out of the octopus’ tentacles. As an artist, I’m very inspired by making art for everyone. I could present my work in museums and galleries, but I love the spirit of accessibility. I want every walk of life to see my work, not just some high-end art collector. 

What does the lobster mean to you?

I became an artist when I became a Lobster. There’s something about this creature. Its appearance is alien-like. The lobster has been so symbolic throughout art history. The symbol of the lobster is life and death, yet also conveys luxury. Even during the surrealist period, Salvatore Dalí was also inspired by the lobster. I think lobsters are like aliens from another planet, so I find them quite inspiring. I became obsessed with them, which led to the lobsters manifesting in my work. 

Lastly, could you please share some tips on how to overcome creative blocks while working in the artistic industry? 

You just have to do it. Having the discipline to for example go to the studio every day, whether you’re in a good mood or bad mood, just go every day. Also, committing to a certain amount of projects. You just have to do stuff. Some days you’ll have ideas flowing, other days you won’t, you just need to push forward and execute something. 

Apart from the vibrant installations by Colbert, Siam Paragon also hosts many activities, from full-on entertainment to cultural. Visitors can join the concerts with a line-up of over 100 artists,  the Buddha bathing bathing with rare Buddha images from National Musuem Bangkok and demonstrations of Thai herbal remedies, Contemporary Morlam or Thai Northeastern style music performance  and more, to 16 April.

For further information about Siam Paragon’s Ultrasonic Water Festival 2024 and Philip Colbert’s Songkran Lobster Wonderland in Bangkok, please click here. 

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The annual Bangkok Design Week 2024 is upon us, and it’s the showcase of just how talented the artists of Bangkok can be. Here’s all you need to know about the return of this annual event, taking place this 27 January – 4 February.

When people think of Bangkok, art may not be the first thing that comes to mind. And if it is, it’s common to be the image of classical Thai art, adorning temple walls and golden headpieces. However, Thai art and design has a lot more to offer than you might think.

Bangkok Design Week 2024 will take place this 27 January – 4 February, 2024. The creative design festival “aims at sharing visions and achievements that revitalise the potentials of Bangkok,” and this year the theme is ‘Livable Scape.’ According to the website, “the more people act, the better the city.” After all, design is culture, and interacting with culture and letting art be seen and adapted to the changing landscape are the keys to not letting that culture disappear.

With the return of Bangkok Design Week, here’s how you can support the creative minds of Bangkok, and keep our creative scene alive and well. As usual, you’ll know this will be a highly ‘grammable event.

[Hero image credit: Pop Icon/Facebook; featured image credit: I Flower You: Pak Khlong Collective Blooms]

Bangkok Design Week 2024 is taking over 15 creative districts: What to expect

Last year’s event took place across nine creative districts. This time, they’re doing over 15 districts across Bangkok: Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Phra Nakhon, Pak Khlong Talat, Nang Loeng, Yaowarat, Ari – Pradipat, Bangpho – Kiak Kai, Wongwian Yai – Talat Plu, Kaset – Bang Bua, Phrom Phong, Hua Lamphong, Siam – Ratchatewi, Bangkok Yai – Wang Doem, Phra Khanong, Bang Na, Bang Mot, and others.

There’s a handy interactive map here if you want to make plans and art hop.

The goal is to let visitors not only marvel at art and design, but also to learn more about each district’s communities and uniqueness, as well as promoting local businesses and well-being at the same time.

There are seven categories of programme in total: exhibitions, music and performances, talks, tours, workshops, markets, promotions, and events. The “events” category is basically filled with other events that do not necessarily fit within other categories, which range from AR mapping, to swing dance, to just sitting down with an emotional support group. If you’re looking to go to certain kinds of events, you can filter them on the Bangkok Design Week website.

You can find more information at Bangkok Design Week 2024.

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Catch ’em all, yes. But paint ’em all too. The fan-favourite Pikachu Van Gogh cards are coming back to the Van Gogh Museum.

Yes, you heard that right. The Pikachu Van Gogh cards that caused a riot are returning to the Van Gogh Museum sometime in mid-February or March.

The card was initially released in September 2023 as part of a Pokémon x Van Gogh Museum collaboration for the museum’s 50th anniversary. Inspired by Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat, the release was intended to entice a younger audience to visit the museum to learn about the prolific artist. Featuring Pikachu in the artist’s signature impressionist style, it’s easy to see why the card was so popular.

The card literally caused a riot, and the Van Gogh Museum had to limit sales before canceling sales entirely at the end of September, much to the disappointment of fans. Since then, scalpers have been reselling the Pikachu Van Gogh card (officially named Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat) at outrageous prices.

 

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A post shared by Pokémon Trading Card Game (@pokemontcg)

Now that the craze has died down, Pokémon and the Van Gogh Museum have decided to re-release the card as well as other merch alongside other Pokémon-themed activities to continue the collaboration. The Pikachu Van Gogh card will also be available in select local stores around the Netherlands, with each stocking around 100 copies. However, these cards can only be given to customers who’ve spent at least 30 euros (approximately HK$255) on Pokemon TCG merchandise, further limiting availability. And of course, the museum store will also have tighter security this time around.

Still, with more cards soon entering the market, the prices of the Pikachu Van Gogh card might drop even further, which is good news for anyone looking to add it to their collection.

Images: Van Gogh Museum

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The former publishing house Watana Panich–not to be confused with the 100-year-old braised beef in Ekkamai–has found its second life as an art space. From now until 11 February, Bangkok Kunsthalle is housing Nine Plus Five Works from the French filmmaker and artist Michel Auder.

Bangkok Kunsthalle has transformed an abandoned printing house on Maitrichit Road into an art space

Bangkok folks are blessed with another creative space where they can pretend to wear their over-analytical lens while appreciating the arts. The space in question is Bangkok Kunsthalle (which, according to our editor who happens to be German, roughly translated to ‘Bangkok art hall’). 

The project is the brainchild of Marisa Chiaravanont, who’s behind several creative campaigns like the Chef Care Foundation that makes Jay Fai and Shin Ramyun’s collaborations happen–you can read our verdict here. 

Boasting an extensive space, Bangkok Kunsthalle is expected to house several artworks all year round. Its inaugural exhibition sees the works of French filmmaker and artist Michel Auder who captures the ubiquitous sceneries of Bangkok lives–think his ‘Yaowarat,’ featuring the spontaneous fluidity of Yaowarat’s street life, and ‘Flowers of Thailand’, an interplay of colours and forms presented in looping, unsynchronised sequences. 

You can find more information at Bangkok Kunsthalle.. 

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Although rocks may seem mundane, these brass masterpieces, presented at River City Bangkok’s ‘Journey of the Rock’ exhibition, reveal a more profound story that many can relate to. 

When it comes to telling our life story, we can admit that most of us wouldn’t showcase it through a rock. Nevertheless, artist Chanin Lertphoompanya, also known as White Wall, chooses to transform something seen as ordinary into an invaluable treasure that unveils his true personality. 

[All images courtesy of River City Bangkok]

Journey of the Rock: Unravelling the tales of life through brass masterpieces at River City Bangkok

Journey of the Rock

The ‘Journey of the Rock’ exhibition represents White Wall’s world, with each room telling a different story and each step taking you into the journey of the tales of life. The artist’s brass art reflects the human experience, capturing the essence of our diverse and complex nature. With great care and precision, he selects his most meaningful pieces to tell the story of his life journey. The result is a stunning collection that not only showcases his artistic expertise but also speaks to the mosaic of our true selves in ways we had never imagined. 

Throughout the exhibition, three rooms present three different concepts, says Chanin. “The first one showcases what I usually sell. It’s like getting to know a friend that you’ve just met. It’s very surface level, where you ask questions like where you like to eat or where you like to go. However, when you move over to the second room, it’s more deep. Like a friend you’ve known for a while, who knows what you’re thinking about. Meanwhile, the third room is all about trust. As the future is hard to predict, I ask, are you willing to walk with me even if everything is uncertain?”

The Moon

When we asked the artist what piece was his favourite, Chanin responded that every work here is special, but something about the moon speaks to him. Made under the moonlight, The Moon was one of his first masterpieces. “There’s this magic, this allure in the moon. We see it every night, but it’s never the same, even though it’s the same moon. I also only do this piece by piece and when I want to. Once I feel it’s great, I’ll showcase it like the piece at this exhibition.” 

Chanin further explained his artistic technique when creating his moon pieces. “It takes around seven days to complete. There’s much waiting due to the casting and polishing process. Also, when I produce this type of work, I don’t want to worry if it’s pretty, so I create these pieces in pitch black. I don’t even see my hands or equipment. I just use my senses.”

If you’re interested in this extraordinary masterpiece, The Moon is ready for auction. Simply place your bid into the obsidian box nestled within the exhibition hall. The auction is open until the exhibition ends. 

River City Bangkok’s ‘Journey of the Rock’ is a free art exhibition located on the 2nd floor at RCB Galleria 2. ‘Journey of the Rock’ is open today until 15 February 2024 from 10 am to 8 pm.

Every Saturday, 27 January, 3rd and 10th February 2024, from 2.00 – 3.30 pm, there will be a “Walk With White Wall,” an immersive experience led by the artist himself. In those three days, complimentary coffee explicitly created for this spectacle by ANTDAY will also be provided. For more information, please visit River City Bangkok’s website here. 

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Art is blossoming around the city, so here’s the chance to get out and support local talents. Let us show you the best art exhibitions in Bangkok to head to this December 2023.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column.

[Hero and featured image credit: River City Bangkok]

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Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this December 2023

‘ROCK | PAPER | SCISSORS’ by 2CHOEY

“Rock, paper, scissors”; a game we played since we were children. Sometimes we call each other out for not getting it at the same time. Sometimes we jest over who wins. But in the end, whoever wins, it’s an outcome both parties have to accept. That’s just life in general, isn’t it? At Trendy Gallery, ponder through life as we game and gamble through 2CHOEY’s lively characters, navigating through life using their hands, just like you.

‘ROCK | PAPER | SCISSORS’ is on display at Trendy Gallery, River City Bangkok until 4 February, 2023. Find out more info via the website.

‘Firehead: Soul Liberate’ by Songsin Tiewsoomboon

For artist Songsin Tiewsoomboon, her well-known characters ‘Firehead,’ ‘Beansprout,’ and more, are more than just drawings on a page. To her, they’re life-like characters from another world, and her art has been a way of bridging that gap between dimensions. They feel our impressions and awe, and that’s how the spirits can open a gateway for us into their realm. Let us dive deep into Songsin’s creations, get to know each character together through an immersive exhibition, and liberate the souls of both realms.

‘Firehead: Soul Liberate’ is on show at River City Bangkok until January 7, 2024. Find out more info via the website.

‘Cynical Bear 놀이터 (Noliteo)’ by Koo Yoeun Mo

Have you ever asked yourself, “If we were to go back to being a child again, how would it be?” If you have, you’re not alone. It’s a question many adults have, especially living in this digitalised and complex world. All the responsibilities, duties, and numerous problems we face during adulthood may make some people want to be a child again. And that’s what Korean artist Koo Yoeun Mo has showcased in his Cynical Bear pieces, the reflection of an adult’s societal life. But this time, he blends Thai culture into his Cynical Bear artwork to celebrate a country that’s like his second home.

‘Cynical Bear 놀이터 (Noliteo)’ is on show at River City Bangkok until December 12, 2023. Find out more info via the website.

‘Dusk Till Dawn’ by Arjinjonathan Arjinkit

Colourful hues and vivid palettes are on display at the Rosewood Bangkok as they present 12 artworks from local artist Arjinjonathan Arjinkit. The name “Dusk Till Dawn” is a showcase of the painter’s creativity as each piece differs when viewed at different times of the day, from dusk till dawn. It’s a play on bright colours as the work is illuminated by natural light shining through. There’s also a piece located in Lakorn Europrean Brasserie titled “The Atmosphere of Thai Temples” which drew inspirations directly from the temples and rivers of the country.

‘Dusk Till Dawn’ is on show at Rosewood Bangkok until January 7, 2024. You can find out more info via the website.

‘The Colors & Texture of INNSiDE: Through My Eyes’

Grab a brush. INNSiDE by Meliá is celebrating their opening by holding an exhibition in their lobby, and the collaborating artists are everyone frequenting the place. When you visit, you’re encouraged to pick up some art supplies and contribute to the pieces in however way you want. It’s certainly a hands-on, immersive exhibition, as they aim to let these pieces really represent the people of INNSiDE.

‘The Colors & Texture of INNSiDE: Through My Eyes’ is on display at INNSiDE by Meliá until December 31, 2023. You can find out more via the website.

‘Goldie & Friends’ by Goldie

British artist and gallery owner Goldie is showcasing a curated exhibition of his beloved friends’ art pieces, including Futura, Mr Brainwash, Bisco Smith, Mode 2, .Epod, and Inkie. He will also be putting his own “Arrow” series on display at the heart of the exhibition. It’s aim is to show the bond and friendship between artists, and how this comes through in their art. So even though it’s one exhibition, you’ll get to see a lot of artworks on display as you compare and contrast different mediums, styles, and techniques.

‘Goldie & Friends’ is on display at Aurum Gallery until January 28, 2024. You can find out more via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this October 2023

‘Time to Go Home’ by Kenz

Kenz inspects the concept of home in his first solo exhibition in Bangkok. ‘Make yourself at home, not just in a house. Home can be either a Safe Zone or a Self Zone’ stresses that home can encompass people, places, or any objects that make us feel safe, warm, and comfortable. As we stumble through life over the passage of time, we can still cherish our home locations in our mind, even when we’re physical distances away.

‘Time to Go Home’ is on show at River City Bangkok until November 19, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘EMERGE: Photo Thesis Exhibition 2023’

Hub Of Photography (HOP) brings together 2022 and 2023 graduates into this photo thesis exhibition. ‘Emerge’ is a platform for students to take the first step into the professional image-making world by allowing them to tell stories through their lens. Peek inside the next-gen’s perspectives by exploring 30 theses from 30 young artists.

‘Emerge’ is on show at HOP Photo Gallery, Whoop! and HOP Spot until November 5, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘KUU KA N’ by Bathma Kaew-ngok and Naomi Daimaru

Kuu Kan means ‘space’ in Japanese and ‘together’ in Thai. In this vibrant exhibition, a Thai ceramic artist and a Japanese floral artist come to find the importance of space in the togetherness of a couple. Beautiful sculptures and potteries based on Iga-Yaki philosophy from Kaew-ngok and a range of printmaking, drawing, painting, and floral art installations based on Ikebana from Daimaru will take over the space. An Ikebana workshop will also be arranged. Moreover, the couple will also perform Himogake or the packing ceremony to pass on their artworks to the new owners on the last day of the exhibition.

‘KUU KA N’ is on show at La Lanta Fine Art until October 29, 2023. The Ikebana workshop takes place on October 8, 3pm-4pm. Find out more via the website.

‘Lonely Together’ by LonelyPop

Everyone gets lonely sometimes. That is the gist of what LonelyPop’s first exhibition is aiming to present. With the usage of immersive digital art, the artist wants to bring the character to an international scale using NFT, because that is still regarded a good thing by many others and has no downsides at all. Go see art and heal.

‘Lonely Together’ is on display at True Digital Park until 30 November, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Collapse’ by Vichaya Mukdamanee

As twists and turns become more like a curve in the road we can see coming for Thai politics, we were left just whelmed and somewhat hopeless. To many, Thai politics has collapsed. That’s what Thai artist Vichaya Mukdamanee’s exhibition is all about.

‘Collapse’ is on show at 333Gallery from 10-22 October, 2023. You can find more information via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this September 2023

‘Compilation’ by POD ART

Thanachai ‘Pod’ Ujjin of popular Thai band Moderndog unveils an art exhibition where physical art and music intersect. A white grand piano sits as part of the installation, surrounded by eight sections of art, reflecting different parts that make up a song: intro, verse, pre-chorus, chorus, second verse, bridge, solo, and outro. That grand piano can also be fully interacted with, as a way to immerse yourself further into messages of the exhibition.

‘Compilation’ is on display at 333Gallery until October 8, 2023. You can find out more via the website.

‘James Nachtwey: Memoria’

War cannot be described in mere few paragraphs, it is through countless battles that we are still feeling its effects until today, both good and bad. War is violence, war is lost, but studying it gives us a sense of compassion, comraderie, and the value of life. James Nachtwey has spent his life as a photographer documenting wars and critical issues throughout the world. Let us commemorate and celebrate the people and locations captured through James’ camera, for war has affected us all, yet we are the ones still standing.

‘James Nachtwey: Memoria’ is on display at BACC until November 26, 2023. You can find out more via the website.

‘Urge’ by Soichiro Shimizu

The newly inaugurated Supples Gallery is showcasing a solo exhibition by Japanese artist Soichiro Shimizu. In his latest artworks, he explores the deep and profound concept of cyclicity and the captivating nature of cycles. These multidimensional creations unveil themselves through intricate and diverse forms, but they don’t depict repetitive rotations. Instead, they represent interconnected chains, each with their own unique character. Much like the endless circulation of oceans around the globe, Shimizu’s art embodies the ever-changing dynamics, resulting in a continuous and impulsive flow that resonates throughout his large-scale rectangular paintings.

‘Urge’ is on show at Supples Fine Art until October 3, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Second Life’ by Jarupatch Achavasmit and Sakarin Krue-on

Sakarin Krue-on had his photographic installation called ‘Chronicle of the Landscape’ last year. With the artworks still being safekept by Warin Lab Contemporary, Jarupatch Achavasmit has initiated a second approach to its life cycle. She continues Sakarin’s legacy by reinterpreting the art piece into textile art, which is her forte. By giving ‘Chronicle of the Landscape’ a second life, the duo is also contributing to the concept of sustainability upheld by the gallery.

‘Second Life’ is on show at Warin Lab Contemporary until October 14, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Yoomoota – The Universe About You’ by Taras Yoom

This groundbreaking Russian artist makes his debut in Asia with his first solo exhibition that features sculptures, paintings, mixed media pieces, storybooks, and NFTs. In his 23-planet universe, emotions, bodies, addictions, pleasures, and childhood all get their own terrain with different characters to represent them. Led by Yoomata hero Asprim, we’re all taken on a journey to study our own inner universe.

‘Yoomoota – The Universe About You’ is on show at 333Gallery, Iconsiam until September 28, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘The Body of Cybele’ by Liu Youran

Liu Youran explores the contemporary female identities, emphasising the perception of female bodies. Cybele is the Great Mother of the Gods who has been worshipped with orgiastic rites, but in ‘The Body of Cybele,’ Youran is looking to portray female figures with both divinity and immanence. Through puppet-like figures symbolising detachment and objectification, she strives for visually pristine artwork that challenges conventional beauty standards.

‘The Body of Cybele’ is on show at Tang Contemporary Art, River City Bangkok until October 14, 2023. Find out more via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this August 2023

“Bliss” by Tashi Dendup and Ugyen Samdrup

Tashi Dendup and Ugyen Samdrup are a duo of artists from Bhutan, portraying the teachings of Vajrayana Buddhism and the culture of Bhutan as they paint on the same canvas. This new exhibition not only shows the religious inspiration, but also the intangible cultures of Bhutan, from psychedelics to shamanism. The characters depicted in the portraits are symbolic of innate warrior spirit possessed by every human, and by recognising that innate power, we can then harness it and battle life’s obstacles.

“Bliss” is on show until 3 September at RCB Photographers’ Gallery 1, 2nd floor of River City Bangkok. You can find more via the website.

“Aspiration” by AS!N

AS!N, or Ong-Ekarat Nakanukroh, had been putting up his works all over the world highlighting contemporary issues from inequity to environmental problems. For this exhibition, however, he chose to put happiness and joy into the spotlight, depicting worlds filled with wonderful things presented by his signature chicken character. If you’re feeling down from all the problems in your daily conversations, visit the exhibition for a change of pace.

“Aspiration” is on display until 3 September at Central: The Original Store. You can find more via the website.

“Flock Of” by Bit.Studio

Blending art and technology, the exhibition offers you a chance to swim with the swarm of floating fish controlled by AI technology. Each movement of the fish is calculated, resulting in life-like motions as if you’re the one finding Nemo. It’s a perfect opportunity for those who love interactive art, and of course, photo opps for socials. Entry is free for members of TPDK Life, which is also free of charge to sign up and register with.

“Flock Of” is on show until 15 September at True Digital Park. You can find more via the website.

“The Robust Flowers” by Bookbank

When we think of flowers, we think of their positive symbolism: beauty, vitality, colourfulness. Bookbank is shifting the expectations for this exhibition, telling the story of other qualities that make up a flower that may not be all positive, but inseparable from the object. Flowers can be fragile, they can be imperfect, dainty and with flaws—quite similar to a human. But with perseverance, it’s not impossible to challenge whatever life throws at us, like a flower growing in tough conditions.

“The Robust Flowers” is on display until 10 September at River City Bangkok. You can find out more via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this July 2023

‘All You Could Hear’ by Sinta Tantra

Sinta Tantra depicts an important part of her culture in this exhibition about the Balinese festival of Nyepi. During Nyepi, a day of silence and meditation, all you could hear are the sound of the crickets, and the images of her home amid the dark and quiet surroundings are displayed in relation with the nature and the universe. In this at-peace exhibition, Tantra encourages us to consider how our cultural and physical background affects how we interpret images and spaces.

‘All You Could Hear’ is on show at Richard Koh Fine Art until July 22, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Unseen Heroes’ by Chalee Phunsukphoudee, Chayanin Nakapan, Kodsoung Eangubon, Manop Momin, Navapon Huanchaiyaphum, Nidchakan Kongsawat, Pattaraphon Khumpong, Preeyanuch Udomrai, Ronachart Mahakphichian, Sirawit Suharitdumrong, Tanawat Muratatunyaluk, and Teerapong Kamolput

A group of 12 artists comes together in this exhibition about the heroes behind the scene. The canvases display the figures such as a trainer who helps athletes to succeed, a father in support of his son’s dream, children in a war-torn land, and many others. Through the powerful brushstrokes, some of the unseen heroes on these canvases might shed a new halo on some people in your life.

‘Unseen Heroes’ is on show at RCB Galleria 4, River City Bangkok until July 30, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Not Exactly “A-NO-NE”’ by Benzilla, Chalat Kanjanaratanakorn, Nateepol Charoenthurayont, and Ravit Teutvongse

The term ‘a-no-ne’ was once popular among the teens to refer to something innocent, cute, and is often associated with the Japanese culture. The four notable artists devise on their artworks that are not exactly cute and pure anymore as they matured over time. The inspiration is rooted in the visual culture of the Japanese pop culture that is ubiquitous in all Thai aspects.

‘Not Exactly “A-NO-NE”’ is on show at 333 Gallery during July 8-30, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Everybody/Cries/Sometimes’ by Crybaby Molly

Everybody cries sometimes. Be it for a hard day of work, a heartbreak, lost relative—it’s a normal, human thing to cry. This exhibition is here to remind everyone of that fact, and aim to prevent anyone from crying alone. The artworks portray different emotions that could lead to crying, from anguish and grief to depression. Let us cry and heal our souls together.

‘Everybody/Cries/Sometimes’ is on show at River City Bangkok from 22 July – 30 September, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Portrait’ by international artists

‘Portrait’ is a collection of portraits by international artists, each portraying a person of their choice. Artists that are contributing include: Marcela Paz, Misha Maganet, Vlada Lee, Maxim Maltykov, Damian Black, Sirode Siramanon, Sittichai Tangkatitham, Manon Sutham.

‘Portrait’ is on display at Sathorn 11 art space from 15 July – 13 August. You can find more information via the website.

‘Celestial Secret’ by Peter Yuill

It’s Peter Yuill’s first exhibition in Thailand, and he is presenting a themed exhibition on sacred geometry. Through his signature-style geometry, the journey is an intersection between spirituality, mathematics, and physics. Guests will be enthralled by each piece, as each piece is hand-drawn with intricacy.

‘Celestial Secret’ is on show at West Eden until 27 July. You can find more information via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this June 2023

‘Beauty of Decay’ by JM Robert

As an alumnus of the Métiers d’Art national institute of arts and crafts, JM Robert has found a unique beauty in urban decay. Coupled with his innovative fusion of pop art and street art, ‘Beauty of Decay’ is born to celebrate the qualities of woman—the grace and strength they carry themselves with as they fight against a world that still restrains their potential.

‘Beauty of Decay’ by JM Robert is on show at 3rd floor of Rosewood Bangkok until September 14, 2023. You can find out more via the website.

‘Hueb’ by students of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Bangkok University

In Thai, to ‘hueb’ means to fight forward knowing obstacles are inbound. This exhibition organised by the students of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Bangkok University, aims to bring up topics and obstacles in our daily lives that make us suffer. Whether it’s a bad childhood, governmental problems, or just the unhappiness one can get listening to other people’s problems, we still need to hueb forward and face the day.

‘Hueb’ by students of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Bangkok University, is on show until 30 September. You can find more information via the website.

‘Pawspace’ by GINKGO X NANPED

‘Pawspace’ is a new exhibition featuring illustration of adorable cats doing adorable cat things, such as climbing up roofs, accompanying humans on the BTS, playing with the Democracy Monument. If that description doesn’t make you want to check it out immediately, we don’t know what will. Grab a cup of coffee and some snacks as you look up and enjoy the paintings while you’re at it.

‘Pawspace’ by GINKGO X NANPED is available until 8 July at Play Space. You can find more via the website.

‘Urban Bangkok’ by Pavel Khon

Fans of street photography will be able to experience Bangkok through the lenses of Pavel Khon. Sometimes when you see something everyday, you never get to stop and appreciate the beauty of each place. This exhibition may get you to see the city through a new light, watch the things go by each day in a new way.

‘Urban Bangkok’ is on show until July 28 at Photohostel & Photocafe. You can find more information via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this May 2023

‘The Faroese Chronicle’ by Bill Bensley

Bill Bensley, renowned hotel designer, conservationist, and philanthropist, debuts his latest exhibition portraying the Faroe Islands through the lens of the Faroese Knitting Club. Having always been a regular visitor of the island for the past 15 years, Bensley depicts the Faroe Islands as more than a beautiful, exotic place but an intimate society rich with history. Comprising of 38 artworks, the exhibition will donate 100% of the proceeds to Shinta Mani Foundation.

‘The Faroese Chronicle’ will be on show at Art Space by MOCA Bangkok at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River until July 31, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Transcendence: Body as Landscape’ by Chatmongkol Insawang

Chatmongkol Insawang’s closeness with sickness and death leads him to an exhibition that explores the philosophy of life and nature. In between 2D and 3D forms of art, he narrates a journey through the human body’s change and deterioration with the passing of time, whether as sculptures, on canvas, or acrylic plate.

‘Transcendence: Body as Landscape’ is on show at Richard Koh Fine Art until May 27, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Chroma’ by Amnaj Wachirasut

Chroma is a true work of colours. For Amnaj Wachirasut, it represents his life, mind, imagination, and is a reflection of his environment. This abstract version of reality allows him to push beyond limitation and find new development. In this exhibition are colour palettes in all its diversity and quality, from black and white to pastel to bright red.

‘Chroma’ is on show at 333 Gallery, Warehouse 30 until May 28, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Dreams’ by Khin Zaw Latt

“When there is war, no matter who loses or wins, the true losers are the people living in the warzone,” says Burmese artist Khin Zaw Latt. As such, he lets us in on a journey of lost hopes and dreams, as well as suffering as a result of war. The destruction, the people that lost their families, all the discrimination—let yourself be reminded of the negativity going on around the world, and together spark a discourse about peace and hope.

‘Dreams’ by Khin Zaw Latt is on display at Central: The Original Store until 21 May, 2023, You can find more via the website.

‘Content without Light’ by Tamruja Dharmasaroja

While the sun is the prominent, shining fixed star in the universe, there are some other small planets that revolve around the giant. In the realm where everything is glistening and glamorous, there are common citizens working tirelessly behind the scenes under the success of the more visible stars. If they’re usually under-appreciated, is it time for them to be treated equally just like the others? Visit ‘Content without Light’ and find out.

‘Content without Light’ is on show at Palette Artspace until May 9, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Players’ by Monnnae

In the first ever solo exhibition by Monnnae, the highlight is the different people of the world. We are all unique, diverse, and full of personality. We can be ordinary, but in a way, our ordinariness is what makes us stand out. Through a series of paintings, guests are invited to feel the wave of positivity as they are reminded that they are protagonists in their own story. Carpe diem, and so on.

‘Players’ by Monnnae is on show until 25 June, 2023. You can find out more via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this April 2023

‘A Sense of Thai: The Golden Kingdom’

Only for a limited period, Central Embassy is throwing a Songkran bash so artful it’s worth going through all this summer heat for. The whole department store is decorated with Thai art inspired by the four eras of Thai history. Visit the Golden Link on Level 2, a 10-metre tall replica of The Great Pagoda in the middle, as well as “The Journey to Anodard Exhibition” by Teerapon Sisung. Thai culture is displayed through the art of copper weaving, taking forms of the beautiful creatures Kinnorn and Kinnaree of Thai mythology.

‘A Sense of Thai: The Golden Kingdom’ is on display until 17 April. You can find more information at Central Embassy.

‘The Standard x Lucy Sparrow – Add to Cart’

“Even a street cart can be made into art,” says acclaimed British artist Lucy Sparrow, and her newest exhibition will show you exactly how art is all around us. Visit the hotel’s The Parlor and Tease, both of which have been transformed into a street food market, filled with snacks, fruits, and a bunch of local street food favourites crafted entirely from felt. Imagine cotton candy, Isaan pork sausages, moo ping, and more, all handstitched and decorated with little eyes. It’s a memory lane for locals, and an opportunity that cannot be missed for art lovers.

‘The Standard x Lucy Sparrow – Add to Cart’ is on display until 5 May. You can find more information at The Standard Bangkok, Mahakhon.

‘She’s Too Much’ by Juli Baker and Summer

‘She’s Too Much’ tells a story that encircles the 28-day period of a female fictional character who has wishes, experiences, and emotions just like anybody else. She’s usually described by those around her as ‘she’s too much,’ especially in regards to the emotions that overwhelm her each day. Those emotions are explored, documented, and reworked into 29 paintings and sculptures in this exhibition by Juli Baker and Summer.

‘She’s Too Much’ is on show until April 16, 2023 at RCB Galleria 4, River City Bangkok. Find out more via the website.

‘Pure Imagination’

Pure Imagination is a beautiful collection of artworks produced by people with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Na Kittikoon Foundation. This collaboration with Jim Thompson and ATT 19 sheds lights on the everyday-life of people with ASD and aims to change the social stigma towards their capabilities. The exhibition is comprised of the original artworks of 24 students who have worked on the project over the past two years.

‘Pure Imagination’ is on show at ATT 19 until April 30, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Echoes of the Past: An Exhibition of Antique Pianos and Persian Carpets’

Here is the first public exhibition of Kacha, an antique store with two galleries inside River City Bangkok. Six of the very exclusive pianos, each of which are over a century old, are presented along with 14 hand-woven Persian carpets from the famous collector Viktor Bollinger. These priceless works of art include the Custom Painted Marionette Mini-Grand Piano made in 1929, the Victorian-era Steinway & Sons Rococo Grand Piano, and more. The piano performances by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eri Nakagawa and her students will take place every Saturday throughout the exhibition timespan.

‘Echoes of the Past: An Exhibition of Antique Pianos and Persian Carpets’ is on show at RCB Artery, River City Bangkok until April 23, 2023. Find out more via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this March 2023

‘Take Your Time’ by Suntur

The renowned artist Suntur works in collaboration with Trendy Gallery in this solo exhibition that marks his 33-year life journey. The exhibitions include 33 paintings that encompass his 33 years of memories in which he has “circled the sun 33 times.” With the horizon line as the main component and the bright colours as the tools, this sentimental exhibition by Suntur requires audiences to take their time to absorb at their own pace.

Take Your Time is on show at RCB Galleria, River City Bangkok until April 23, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Fly Away’ by Greg Bogin

Famous for painting on a customised canvas, the New York artist Greg Bogin is having his first exhibition in Southeast Asia, ‘Fly Away.’ As a love letter to his wife, the artist created his masterpieces after a visit to Kauai, Hawaii. The brightly coloured artworks transfer a sense of joy and optimism as if to uplift and fly away but all the while still lingering close to the ground.

‘Fly Away’ is on show at Over the Influence gallery until May 7, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘AfterTaste’ by PaKa

AfterTaste, the solo exhibition from PaKa, deals with the lingering feelings that stay from reinterpreting old experiences through our own lens at the present age. Anchan, or the butterfly pea flower character, is in fact the artist’s self-portrait who narrates the story by using different foods as her vehicle. If that doesn’t feel tangible enough, the food installation art is also one of the highlights that interprets food menus in a unique way. Overall, a very thought-provoking exhibit.

AfterTaste is on show at Baan Trok Tua Ngork until March 26, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Flower & Cosmos: The Universe Within’ by Sakul Intakul

In this exhibition that concludes the three-year journey of Sakul Intakul as a floral artist, large-scale hanging wood sculptures, paintings, metal sculptures, sound installation, and more, are generously displayed throughout the whole space. The artist takes on the analogy of the traditional Thai floral net, takhai dokmai, and the connectivity of all materials in the universe.

Flower & Cosmos: The Universe Within is on show at La Lanta Fine Art until March 25, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Waiting Room Live’ by JPBS with DuckUnit

Waiting Room is a cross-disciplinary art project by post-rock band JPBS’s guitarist, Jay Vatanakuljaras. In this work with scenographer DuckUnit, the 75-minute performance will see a rearrangement of JPBS’s new album divided into three acts: Below, Here and Above. Apart from a experimental sonic performance, the project also includes storytelling and design works.

Waiting Room Live is on show at Bangkok CityCity Gallery on March 18, 2023 during 5pm-6.15pm. Tickets are priced at THB700. Find out more via the website.

‘The Comet and The Nostalgic Souls’ by Supawich Weesapen

Fully immersed in an intergalactic world, ‘The Comet and The Nostalgic Souls’ illuminates Nova Contemporary art gallery with unbelievably incandescent paintings. The exhibition is inspired by the astronomical world and was completed in the beginning of 2023, when the jewel comet came the closest to earth in 50,000 years. It almost feels like a different dimension where time works differently in this transformed space.

‘The Comet and The Nostalgic Souls’ is on show at Nova Contemporary until April 8, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Treasure of the Blossom’ by SOE SOE

Having exhibited his works from Singapore to Washington D.C., Myanmar-born artist SOE SOE is well-known for playing with textures using unusual techniques. The “Treasure of Blossom” presents the beautiful rice fields of Myanmar’s Northern Shan’s State with rich hues and bright colours. The uniqueness of each displayed work make SOE SOE many collector’s favourite, and he’ll be here for one month only.

‘Treasure of the Blossom’ is on show at Central: The Original Store until April 16, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Thaï Love’ by JonOne

It’s as raw and uncut as you might expect from graffiti art. Graffiti artist JonOne started his tagging journey since the 1980s in New York, and has been making a name for himself using art since then. Having toured worldwide in famous cities referenced by Pitbull, he’s now in Bangkok to share his amazing graffiti work inspired by Bangkok. It’s showing at the Rosewood Bangkok for three months only.

‘Thaï Love’ is on display at Rosewood Bangkok until June 16, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘The Collector’ by Pavisa Meesrenon

Artist Pavisa mixes her inspirations from her spiritual traditions with creative flourishes she saw in her dreams. Her media is a blend of different layers of gloss, along with matte print with dot drawing. Those painted figures are then whipped up to shape using embroidery. Pavisa aims to be very personal with her works, thinking that the act of painting is how she can highlight problems normally swept under the rug by society.

‘The Collector’ is on show at 1st floor, Gaysorn Center until April 9, 2023. Find out more via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this February 2023

‘Cosmic Vibration’ by Nicolas Panayotou

The Rosewood Bangkok’s quarterly exhibition spotlights kinetic art from one of the very few kinetic artists in the world, Nicolas Panayotou. The French-Greek artist takes four equilateral triangles inspired by the Egyptian pyramids and plays with colour gradients. Resulting in kaleidoscopic spaces with the illusion of movement, the artwork suggests a connection to the past and the future, as well as the outside world and the hidden interiority.

‘Cosmic Vibration’ is on show at Rosewood Bangkok until March 14, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Deep in Mind Sea’ by Mackcha

Follow Charlotte into the deepest corners of her mind. The character, who represents the artist Mackcha or Chararat Saraaporn, has an overwhelming feeling of happiness and sadness, all of which is buried so deep in the sea that even light cannot reach. In her little private world, however, Mackcha is ready to shed the light for whoever comes down and explores her mind.

‘Deep in Mind Sea’ is on show at River City Bangkok until February 28, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘The Endless Swimming Pool’ by Phannapast Taychamaythakool

Yoon Phannapast’s second collaboration with River City Bangkok features a collection of new paintings and sculptures that are deconstructed from her time in dreams and reality, past and present. Swimming in an endless pool of everything-in-between currents, she reflects on all her curiosity and discoveries through her artworks, inviting visitors to plunge into the infinite pool with her.

‘The Endless Swimming Pool’ is on show at River City Bangkok until March 19, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Inside Manga Bubbles’ by Eri Imamura

Eri Imamura brings back her life-sized human torso sculptures in this exhibition curated by Rémy Jarry. This time, the artist explores the lines between Manga and reality, which get blurred in the time of the Covid-19 outbreak. According to the artist, the pandemic forced us into virtual bubbles that resemble the way Manga and other science fictions are narrated, with metaverse bubbles as an alternative. This 2.5 dimensional existence of mankind is presented in the form of fibre art, using Native American beading, Japanese weaving, and dying techniques.

‘Inside Manga Bubbles’ is on show at Warin Lab Contemporary until March 18, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Infinite Ride’ by Inson Wongsam

Thailand’s National Artist of the year 1999, Inson Wangsam at 88 years old still gets up to create art everyday. This exhibition is a beautiful compilation of his lifelong artworks that still continue at this very moment, in order to inspire and encourage new generation artists to stay consistent with their own paths, and to never be afraid of changes.

‘Infinite Ride’ is on show at 333Gallery/Warehouse 30 until February 28, 2023. Find out more via the website.

4 Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this January 2023

‘POORBOYLIFE’ by Kasemwit Chaweewat

Through the white fluffy creature and its amiable friends from the forest, Kasemwit Chaweewat tells the story of his life in the form of paintings and sculptures. Visitors are exposed to Kasemwit’s hybrid art that always possesses a hint of street art feels, portraying all the influences that have shaped his personality until present day.

POORBOYLIFE is on show at RCB Galleria 1, River City Bangkok until January 31, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘What Makes A Mountain’ by Yeoh Choo Kuan and ‘Another Day’ by Zac Lee

RKFA Double Bill is hosting two exhibitions from two Malaysian artists this month. In ‘What Makes a Mountain,’ Yeoh Choo Kuan creates his own mountains through his signature paint streaming technique that mimics water movement. Over in ‘Another Day,’ the artist Zac Lee emphasises the beauty in routines, as simple as picking up a book or sketching a picture, using sombre hues.

Both exhibitions are on show at Richard Koh Fine Art in from January 7-19, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Dragonerpanzer’ by Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch

Through a collaboration between Boo_X and curator Nim Niyomsin, Dragonerpanzer is an ongoing series of art that portrays the glory, desire and the power structure by Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch. After the exposure to the Dresden porcelain collection at Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden museum in Germany, the artist took what was left of the Dragonervasen, or the Dragoon vases, and created a life-size tank adorned with Chinese porcelain patterns. Symbolising a significant moment in time, the tank also reflects the attempt for power and status, from centuries ago until now.

The Dragonerpanzer is on show at MOCA Bangkok until February 5, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘The Renaissance Woman’ by Saverio Lucci

The elegant lobby of the Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok will set the backdrop for the prolific contemporary artist and designer Saverio Lucci’s exhibition. Born in Italy and based in Bangkok, Lucci merges European and Italian traditions with Japanese dreamlike influences into the 18 paintings showcased. Under the concept of ‘The Renaissance Woman,’ the artist contemplates beauty, emotions, soul, sentiments, and the nuances in a human’s life.

‘The Renaissance Woman’ is on show at Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok’s lobby and Mondo until February 20, 2023. Find out more via the website.

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand, and has been updated for content. 

The post Spraycation: Best art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok right now appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Although these drawings may look cute, they have a deeper meaning. Get ready to embrace all emotions and embark on a transformative journey at ‘On Cloud Nine,’ presented by River City Bangkok. 

River City Bangkok recently unveiled the solo exhibition ‘On Cloud Nine’ by Pazut Wutigornsombatkul, also known as Tuagomstudio. The exhibition tells a transformative tale of Tuagom, a cheerful and plump boy who usually sees the world positively. However, this time it’s different. Tuagom embarks on a journey to navigate his life through various emotions to finally find solitude. While his faithful companion, Bingsu, the dog, is absent, Tuagom sets out to explore the world on his own, embracing the complexities of life. 

[All images coutresy of River City Bangkok]

About ‘On Cloud Nine’

‘On Cloud Nine’ is influenced by Pazut’s life experiences for 30 years, where he encountered various narratives. Although these experiences offered him different emotions, like joy, hope, disappointment, and sorrow. Pazut realised that you must embrace them, even the negative sensations. Hence, in this show, there are 19 meaningful art pieces. These artworks present the intriguing relationship between human life and the constantly evolving canvas of the sky. 

“I went through many difficulties at this time in my life. It was like I was drowning. But I knew I had to keep going. I had to get away from the clouds. So, if you see in one of my pieces, Tuagom is climbing up the stairs to reach the surface above the foggy sky. He’s letting go of the negativity and learning solitude. He’s trying to be at his highest self.” – Pazut Wutigornsombatkul.

Although this show may seem cute at first glance, it encourages us to embrace our emotions without hiding them. It promotes the idea that expressing our true feelings is the key to leading an authentic life. To further emphasize this message, the exhibition features a calming and slightly melancholic melody composed by Tor-Saksit Vejsupaporn, one of Thailand’s renowned pianists.

River City Bangkok’s On Cloud Nine’ is a free art exhibition located on the 2nd floor at RCB Photographers’ Gallery. ‘On Cloud Nine’ is open today until 21 January 2024 from 10 am to 8 pm. For more information, please visit River City Bangkok’s website here. 

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Recently trending on TikTok for serving the ultimate glare, Auguste Toulmouche’s 1866 painting The Hesitant Fiancée is a startlingly lifelike impression of a woman who’s just tired of it. Sadly, we can relate to her very much so.

Society has always appreciated fine art, and that same sentiment has persisted through the ages. Art has been admired for as long as it has been made, with notable pieces by world-renowned painters fetching millions at auctions. 

But, while our forefathers could only enjoy paintings that were right in front of them, modern-day art lovers are blessed with digitised scans of all their favourite pieces. It’s easier to share, and thus appreciate art. And even better – it’s now easier than ever to hold discourse on the meaning of any one painting, and modern art enthusiasts are taking to TikTok to proclaim the merits of their favourites. 

The renaissance of classical art in a time of memes has resulted in a delightful boom of cheeky, oftentimes hilarious content. And while some are simply aimed at giving art lovers a good chuckle, others, like Toulmouche’s newly-memed piece, provides an insightful look into our ancestors’ lives — women in particular, and the subject of marriage when one is unwilling. 

The painting that sparked a thousand TikToks 

The painting in question is the work of French artist Auguste Toulmouche, who was born in Nantes, France, in 1829. At just 19 years of age and under the tutelage of his teacher, the painter Charles Gleyre, he exhibited his first paintings at the Paris Salon in 1848.

His work is mostly composed of elegantly dressed ladies of the upper class, painted in academic realism style. They were widely considered to be fashionable, winning the painter much public and critical acclaim. His masterpieces were purchased by the Emperor Napoleon III, and he received a third class medal at the Paris Salon in 1852, and a second class medal in 1861.

Despite his accolades, Toulmouche’s critics would remark upon his work with mild apathy, relegating their emphasis on luxuriously idle lifestyles and sumptuous fabrics to nothing more than “elegant trifles”. Indeed, novelist Émile Zola once referred to his paintings as the “delicious dolls of Toulmouche” — though that is perhaps an unfair assumption, given the meaningful depths behind the work in question. 

The Hesitant Fiancée, also known as The Reluctant Bride, was painted in 1866, when Toulmouche had begun to undertake more complex compositions within his paintings. The bride, clearly indicated by her opulent pearlescent garment, appears to merely tolerate the fawning of her female compatriots. The women appear to offer comfort, perhaps even reassurance of the merits of traditional marriage and feminine submission. She is clearly a woman of noble bearing and some manner of wealth, being surrounded by it; and yet, unabashed, displays obvious disdain for her impending fate — an uncommon occurrence for women of the time. 

To put it simply: She is not impressed, and her withering glare says it all. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@voxdotcom/video/7299992014094060846?_r=1&_t=8hQeCMqea4w

What is ‘The Hesitant Fiancee’ trend on TikTok? 

The women of TikTok have taken to the app to commiserate with the woman, co-opting her quietly furious expression and using it through the trend in response to a variety of situations: Annoyances, inconveniences, micro-aggressions from antagonistic peers, and everything else in between. While many of these responses warrant a hearty, light-hearted chuckle, some users have been quick to point out that the bride’s expression perfectly encapsulates the concept of female rage. 

If you haven’t heard of the term, female or feminine rage can be summed up as an inherited, ancestral response to the struggles, frustrations, oppressions, and injustice that women have long been subjected to. While the notion has long existed in life and literature, it wasn’t until this year that the term famously exploded across social media, with many women embracing their female rage – especially given the resurgence of pop culture hits that perfectly showcased it. 

Audiences easily related with the women of these films – from Rosamund Pike’s Cool Girl monologue in Gone Girl and Taraji P. Henson’s bathroom troubles in Hidden Figures, to Angela Bassett’s fury in Wakanda Forever and Florence Pugh’s monologue about womanhood in Little Women. 

The success of The Hesitant Fiancée trend on TikTok comes as no surprise, given the current discourse around women who are just fed up with everything. Speaking to the New York Times, fine art gallery owner Joan Hawk muses on women’s changing attitudes on marriage, and how it affected the painting’s resurgence. To her, the bride’s scathing glare communicates, “Ugh, do I really have to go through with this?” 

In the same article, Los Angeles screenwriter Jenn Ficarra shares her belief that the painting received widespread success because many women can relate to the bride’s frustration in the face of “a situation in which she is expected to appear grateful.” This line of thought, while unconventional in 1800s Paris, is better received today — though based on just how popular the painting has become, it would seem we still have some ways to go. Until then, netizens can continue to vent their frustrations using the delightfully dour (and incredibly relatable) glower of our beloved bride.

(Main and featured image: Wikimedia/ Public Domain)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Who is Auguste Toulmouche?

Auguste Toulmouche is a French painter who was born in Nantes, France, and based on Paris for the latter part of his career. His works are in the academic realism style.

– Why is The Hesitant Fianceé trending on TikTok?

The Hesitant Fianceé is trending on TikTok because women are relating to the woman’s glare, with many hailing it as a prime example of female, or feminine rage.

– What is female rage?

Female or feminine rage can be summed up as an inherited, ancestral response to the struggles, frustrations, oppressions, and injustice that women have long been subjected to.

– What is female rage in literature?

‘Feminine rage’ is a genre of works predominantly produced by female authors and artists, that depict female characters engaging in behaviour that is unconventional and socially unexpected of women in general.

– What is an example of female rage in film?

There are many examples of female rage in film, with the most popular being Rosamund Pike’s character in Gone Girl.

This article originally appeared on Prestige Online Malaysia.

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In a bold move last year, luxury watch manufacturer Breguet joined forces with Frieze contemporary art fair, presenting a series of curated presentations for watch and art lovers to admire at all Frieze international art events around the globe. This year, we got on a flight and flew to Seoul to attend the highly anticipated Frieze Seoul ourselves. Under the guidance of art curator Somi Sim, here’s a small stroll through ‘Streaming Time,’ Breguet’s special exhibition at Frieze Seoul this September.  

Curator Somi Sim will oversee all four distinct curated displays in the Breguet lounges across Frieze art fairs over the year. An independent art curator that is based between Seoul and Paris, Sim engages themes of history and urbanism in her curatorial practices covering design and contemporary art. After visiting the Breguet manufacture and museum in Switzerland, her latest exhibitions for Breguet at Frieze are centred around the perception of time. Sim notes, “my curatorial approach to collaborating with Breguet considers both their importance in the invention of development of horology to create dialogue between the art and the broader understandings or horology shaped by history.” 

Sim’s first chapter at Frieze New York was titled ‘Orbital Time,’ while at Frieze Seoul this year, it is titled ‘Streaming Time.’ Read on for a deeper exploration of the key pieces.

Exploring ‘Streaming Time’ with art curator Somi Sim and Breguet at Frieze Seoul 2023

After meandering around the exhibitions of some of the world’s most notable galleries, we sift our way through Seoul’s fashionable art crowd to explore the Breguet lounge and meet Somi Sim. The art curator speaks humbly and passionately about the Korean artists she has selected to interpret ‘Streaming Time,’ and we are quickly pulled into the conversation.  

With a glass of champagne in hand, it is a special experience, and the layers of meaning and meta aren’t lost on us. As we wander, surrounded by some of Breguet’s most stunning timepieces, chat with the team that has flown in from Switzerland, and even take part in the Guillochage demonstration, it is wonderful to think about all the different symbols of time around us. The art pieces take this even further. 

Heemin Chung: The artist that takes his time

One of Somi Sim’s aims for the Breguet exhibition at Frieze Seoul was to contrast recent media with traditional media, merging a beautiful connection between the art work and the displays of Breguet’s more recent novelties and historical timepieces. 

Within the lounge, Heemin Chung’s paintings greet the eye first, displaying a more traditional form of art. Through the unconventional use of gel medium, the artist utilises layers upon layers to create an illusion of floral petals. Together, her series of paintings show the passing of time in the life of a flower, as it evolves and changes through the seasons. As Sim tells us, “flowers are active and reactive receivers of streaming time.”

The passing of time is also reflected in the way the art pieces are constructed. The gel medium takes months to dry, and Chung only works on one layer at a time. It is not without reason that the pieces of this popular new Korean artist are so hot in demand, especially as they can take months to commission. It is proof that carefully constructed pieces — be they art or time pieces — remain one of the world’s most revered treasures. 

Sungseok Ahn: The photographer who went to the army

After being welcomed by the sight of Heemin Chung’s delicate flowers, our art tour gets a shake-up through the alarming sound of bullets towards the back of the exhibit. Experimenting with notions of modern ‘streaming’ (phone-scrolling, gaming, even K-drama-bingeing), this is how we are introduced to the work of Sungseok Ahn. 

The military work of Ahn explores a more modern art medium with video, digital photography, and sound. It is inspired by the artist’s own experience with the army service, as this is mandatory for all Koreans. Ahn joined the army as a young man, where he worked as a professional photographer, “shooting” with a camera instead of a gun — a message he conveys in his video, too. Again, the notion of time takes on various layers, through themes of competition, catastrophe, and ultimately, solidarity. The clip ends with soldiers lying on the ground with their eyes closed, and sombre thoughts start to invade the mind. Then, Sim asks us to listen carefully: do the bullets not resemble the sound of an alarm? 

The art curator wakes us up to the world of possibility, a fantastic opening of the mind that is not uncommon at the world’s greatest art fairs. As we finish our flute of champagne, we marvel at the complexity with which each of the artists have interpreted ‘Streaming Time,’ and the beauty with which we surround ourselves, most fittingly, together with one of the world’s most storied timekeepers. 

About Breguet x Frieze

Breguet commenced its partnership with Frieze global art fair in 2022, further reinforcing its long-standing connection to the arts. The exciting collaboration has seen artists presented at Frieze’s five international art fairs: Frieze London, Frieze Masters, Frieze New York, Frieze Los Angeles, and Frieze Seoul. The partnership is expected to run through 2024. 

Find out more at Breguet.

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Harry Styles just got David Hockneyfied. The English superstar was painted by legendary artist David Hockney for an upcoming exhibition.

A soon-to-be-unveiled line of portraits by legendary artist David Hockney will include English pop singer Harry Styles as one of the subjects. The paintings will be up for display at the National Portrait Gallery (NPG) in London between 2 November 2023 and 21 January 2024.

The autumn event marks the return of the five-star exhibition ‘David Hockney: Drawing from Life’, which was last held for 20 days before the NPG shut down in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The upcoming exhibition will introduce 33 new portraits, depicting friends and visitors who dropped by his studio in Normandy, France.

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All about David Hockney’s painting of Harry Styles

Details of the striking portrait

The project started when the “As It Was” hitmaker visited Hockney’s sunny studio in May 2022. Over two sittings, the artist worked on accurately achieving the shades of Styles’ red and yellow striped shaggy cardigan, his pearl string and indigo jeans. The final artwork is acrylic on canvas, measuring 1219.2 x 914.4 mm.

Speaking about his work method, Hockney told Vogue, “I begin with the head first. From there, I place everything else.” The colourful painting is a stunning replica of the singer’s back-swept ruffled hair, his casual style of sitting and the unmissable glitter in his eyes and smile during his fanboy moment. A sense of transparency and honesty line the British artist’s works that make this so life-like. “Hockney’s eye for the human figure may be playful, often kaleidoscopic, sometimes fantastical – but it’s always, most importantly, frank,” notes Vogue.

Sharing his experience, Styles said, “David Hockney has been reinventing the way we look at the world for decades. It was a complete privilege to be painted by him.” However, for Hockney, the case was slightly different. He recalled, “I wasn’t really aware of his celebrity then. He was just another person who came to the studio.”

Around 160 paintings are to be showcased at the NPG exhibition

The previous iteration of the exhibition included portraits of Hockney’s mother, Celia Birtwell, Gregory Evans, Maurice Payne and the artist himself, in a range of media — from pencil, pen and ink and crayon, to photographic collage and the iPad. In fact, Hockney was one of the pioneering artists, who elevated the gadget to a tool of drawing.

While Harry Styles’ stardom will be one of the major crowd-pullers, visitors will also witness Hockney’s distinctive genius and masterstrokes. Along with the new paintings of 2021-2022, the exhibition will feature around 160 artworks, both new and old. Pencil drawings from Paris in 1970, self-portraits from the 1980s and other works will also be on display.

Buy tickets to the exhibition here.

(Hero and feature image credit: National Portrait Gallery)

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Singapore. 

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In our busy routines, coffee has become an essential part of our mornings. Grabbing a cup of joe while heading to the office is a common practice all around the world. Among the plethora of coffee shops, one name shines brightly – Starbucks. Today, we look at the most beautiful Starbucks stores that’ll make your daily coffee run feel extra fancy.

Since its start in 1971 in Seattle, Washington, the popular coffeehouse has become a global phenomenon with thousands of stores worldwide. What sets Starbucks apart is not just its ubiquitous green mermaid logo or the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee; it’s a unique combination of factors that have made it a cultural icon. But did you know several Starbucks outlets around the world are known for their unique and aesthetically-pleasing designs?

Step into any Starbucks store and you’ll be greeted by an inviting atmosphere of soft lighting and earthy furnishings that blends familiarity and innovation. The interior design is crafted around the brand’s interpretation of a “third place” — an area outside of the house and workplace where people can unwind and socialise. Some outlets, however, boast more elaborate and Instagram-worthy concepts that go above and beyond the ordinary, complete with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, mosaic floors, quirky art installations and even sustainable materials.

On the back of Starbucks’ newly launched collaboration with K-pop juggernaut Blackpink in Asia on 25 July — which features limited edition merchandise and a strawberry-chocolate cream frappuccino — we go on a tour of the most stunning Starbucks locations in the world that serve up delicious coffee and deserve a place on your travel itinerary. If caffeine is your love language, you may also want to check out this list of amazing cold brew recipes, and our guide to the most expensive coffees of all time.

(All images: Courtesy of Starbucks)

18 most beautiful Starbucks stores that deserve a spot on your caffeine-centric travel itinerary

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Singapore.

1

Wadakura Fountain Park – Tokyo, Japan

The Starbucks Wadakura Fountain Park in Tokyo, Japan, seamlessly melds with the surrounding scenery and cultural background. The store’s aesthetic complements the gorgeous surroundings and gives customers a tranquil and distinctive coffee experience. Its outside seating has a view of the serene Wadakura Fountain Park. The interior emphasises sustainability with coffee-coloured ground floor tiles and refinished furniture for a distinctive look. The eco-friendly atmosphere is enhanced with artwork made from recyclable materials like fishing nets and recycled canvas. The goal of this Starbucks is to be 40% greener than other locations nationwide.

2

Milan, Italy

As the birthplace of espresso, with innumerable cafes dotting the landscape, Starbucks needed to make an extra effort to win over the discerning Italian audience of Milan. Hence, it created a unique concept with the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano that would appeal to even the most fastidious coffee connoisseurs. This Starbucks Roastery outlet marked the concept’s third location worldwide and its first in Europe. The magnificent façade is complemented by an interior that includes an Arrivamo bar that offers handcrafted drink experiences, a contemporary geometrically constructed ceiling, and a Palladiana mosaic floor with an Italian marble finish. You can watch Master Roasters expertly roast small-batch Starbucks Reserve coffees and even choose some beans from the scoop bar to take home. It’s a true coffee lover’s paradise.

3

Grand Turks Cruise Terminal - Turks & Caicos

Nestled in the Turks & Caicos Islands, a popular stop for cruise liners in the Caribbean, Starbucks Grand Turk Cruise Terminal is a charming coffee haven for travellers. As the sole Starbucks branch in the country, its stunning pink exterior maintains an authentic Caribbean vibe, while the light indoor palette complements the tropical theme. The beach-themed café resembles the set of a Wes Anderson movie or a Starbucks for Barbie, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. At the back of the store, visitors can admire a captivating mural hand-painted by artist Maria Camila Bernal Toro of Remedios Art, depicting the iconic Starbucks Siren with her double-tail gracefully submerged underwater.

4

Seattle, Washington

The Reserve Roastery dubbed the “Willy Wonka factory of coffee,” is located in a modern 15,000-square-foot building in an upscale inner-city suburb of Capitol Hill. The Roastery is one of the biggest Starbucks locations in the world and is located just nine blocks from the original 1912 Pike Store in Seattle. It comprises four distinct coffee bars — a library, a cafe, a gift shop, and a roasting section where you can learn about the manufacturing of coffee.

5

Paris, France

The refurbished Boulevard des Capucines Starbucks Store in Paris, emphasises the preservation of the structure’s historical features. The building’s original form and courtyard date back to the 17th century, when it was a renowned department store with a focus on textiles and clothing. The 17th-century courtyard now has a striking steel glass ceiling, which allows natural light to pour in and create a welcoming ambience. The elaborate 19th-century ceiling murals and themes were painstakingly restored to their original splendour by the Starbucks design team, revealing their real colours and elegant historical past. This was done with a special focus on conserving the building’s rich history.

6

Bangkok, Thailand

Located in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, the Starbucks Reserve Chao Phraya Riverfront store serves small-lot Starbucks Reserve coffees alongside Thailand’s Muan Jai Blend. As the largest Starbucks in the country, it pays homage to Thai culture with intricately crafted lanterns adorning the mezzanine ceiling, reminiscent of the city’s Loy Krathong festival. The store’s outdoor terrace is the highlight, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline and the lively Chao Phraya River, also known as the “River of Kings.”

7

Bali, Indonesia

One of Southeast Asia’s largest shops, The Starbucks Dewata Coffee Sanctuary features an innovative and eye-catching design. This unique store goes above and beyond because it also has a coffee farm. It makes sense that Starbucks chose Bali for this ambitious project considering Indonesia’s prominence as one of the world’s leading coffee-growing regions — Indonesia is the world’s fourth-largest producer of Arabica coffee. Visitors are welcomed by an Arabica coffee tree-adorned patio that leads to connecting spaces where they can engage in activities like raking coffee beans or de-pulping and washing coffee beans during harvest seasons.

8

Shanghai, China

The Shanghai Starbucks Reserve Roastery offers a theatrical and immersive coffee experience in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. It stands out as the first Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Asia with its amusement park-like setting and bustling crowds. Three coffee experience bars, a 3D-printed tea bar, and a customised Teavana tea bar are all part of this unique site. Notably, one of its coffee shops has one of the world’s longest Starbucks bars at a whopping 88 feet.

9

Mumbai, India

The new Starbucks Reserve store, spanning 5,200 square feet, is designed to create an immersive coffee experience for customers. The stunning aesthetics reflect Starbucks’ premium coffee offering, with a monolithic terrazzo Starbucks Reserve bar crafted by local artisans as the centrepiece. Architect and artist Ankon Mitra’s cloud-inspired sculpture adds a captivating touch. Beyond twin arches influenced by Mumbai’s architectural heritage, a vibrant floor-to-ceiling mural featuring the Starbucks Siren welcomes visitors. Local Mumbai artists Sonal Vasave and Makarand Narkar brought the mural to life, offering an augmented reality (AR) experience when customers scan a nearby QR code with their Instagram camera.

10

New York City, New York

The New York Roastery draws inspiration from the city’s resilient spirit and the meatpacking district’s hardworking ethos. It provides a three-dimensional look into the coffee journey by acting as both a workshop and a stage. The Starbucks Reserve store, housed in the famous Empire State Building, mixes in perfectly with the cityscape of New York. The “Starbucks Reserve” vintage aluminium writing on the Art Deco façade exudes a sense of timeless beauty. This distinctive coffee destination, which spans 23,000 square feet over three levels, pays tribute to both the history of the Empire State Building and Starbucks in New York.

11

Bluewaters Island — Dubai, UAE

The 1000th Starbucks Store is located at the bustling entertainment hub at the base of Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel. This stunning store boasts eye-catching interiors, a spectacular outdoor seating area, and friendly Reserve brown apron partners serving unique beverages. It’s a haven for speciality coffee enthusiasts, ambience-seekers, and those seeking the perfect Insta-worthy background to enjoy their favourite drinks.

12

Seoul Wave Art Center, South Korea

The “floating Starbucks” on the Han River offers a spectacular view, especially at night when the lights enhance its beauty. The store, which resembles an oiler ship with a lengthy corridor, generates a distinctive marine adventure atmosphere. It is a must-visit location for a great coffee experience with a beautiful backdrop.

13

Battersea Power Station — London, England

Starbucks has one of the most beautiful locations inside the stunning Battersea Power Station, which is one of London‘s most recognisable landmarks. Battersea Power Station is a monument that was built by renowned architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, who is also the man behind the country’s iconic red phone boxes. The Starbucks location aims to provide a contemporary and sophisticated extension of this concept by drawing inspiration from the building’s Art Deco features and industrial past. Embracing the industrial aesthetic, the store’s design complements the raw shell of the unit, celebrating the heritage and uniqueness of its location.

14

Valletta Waterfront – Valletta, Malta

The Valletta Waterfront store in Floriana draws inspiration from Valletta’s heritage as a historic trading hub. Featuring floor-to-ceiling wood marquetry and wood and marble finishes, the store’s design pays homage to the colourful doors that once served as beacons for sea traders crossing the Mediterranean. With a lime green door, the store contrasts its dark, sophisticated interior with the city’s iconic lighter stone façade. This Starbucks location captures the essence of Valletta’s rich history and maritime legacy.

15

Chicago, Illinois

Michigan Avenue is the home of the world’s largest Starbucks, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago. A 56-foot steel cask, the largest in the industry, stands at the centre of the roastery and serves as both a decorative centrepiece and a location for recently roasted coffee beans to de-gas. The artwork honours coffee as an agricultural commodity and is inspired by misty green hills covered in coffee trees that are soaking up the sun. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago boasts five levels of delectable and Instagrammable beverages, promising a remarkable and unforgettable experience.

16

Yomiuriland — Tokyo, Japan

This beautiful Tokyo Starbucks outlet is nestled inside the Hana Biyori greenhouse, a part of the larger garden managed by Yomiuriland amusement park. Stepping into this floral wonderland feels like entering an Instagram dream, with blooming flower walls and hanging baskets adorned with begonias, fuchsias, petunias, geraniums, and bellflowers in the grand hall. It’s a floral fantasy that comes to life that promises a delightful experience for visitors.

17

Hualien Bay Mall, Taiwan

Starbucks Taiwan made history by opening its first store in Asia Pacific constructed from recycled shipping containers. This innovative Starbucks store is the first retailer to establish a presence in the Hualien Bay Mall, a popular tourist destination known for its exquisite cuisine and stunning Pacific Ocean views. The unique exterior design was crafted by the renowned Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma, who previously worked on Starbucks Japan’s Fukuoka store and is also the exterior architect for the upcoming Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Tokyo.

18

Famille Park -- Seoul, Korea

Korea’s reputation for stunning architecture extends to its local Starbucks, and the Starbucks Famille Park is no exception. One of the most beautiful Starbucks in Korea and has an alluring contemporary glass dome outside that embraces a hardwood panelled interior to create the atmosphere of an urban coffee forest. It is a favourite location for guests to sip their coffee in a wonderfully magical atmosphere because of the focal decor, which features flying birds.

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Staying in Bangkok this summer and don’t know what to do? Head to ICONSIAM for an immersive experience at Van Gogh Alive Bangkok. 

Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh is considered one of the world’s most influential artists, creating many masterpieces that are viewed by millions to this day. Known for his bold colours and impressive brushwork, his artwork echoes his mental state. Even his most famous painting, Starry Night, is said to have been created in an insane asylum. Despite his turbulent life and times, Vincent remains relevant and is one of the most recognised painters of our time. But how can audiences genuinely immerse themselves and understand the mind of this tortured artist? Well, the Van Gogh Alive exhibition has created a unique yet captivating way.

[Hero & Feature Image Courtesy of ICONSIAM]

All about Van Gogh Alive in Bangkok at ICONSIAM

Grande Experiences, the creator of Van Gogh Alive, has partnered with Live Impact Events and ICONSIAM. As these three join hands, the world’s most visited Van Gogh Alive exhibition has finally unlocked its doors to visitors for the first time in Bangkok. The show sits in the Attraction Hall of ICONSIAM on the 6th floor and is open until July 31, 2023.

For those who don’t know what Van Gogh Alive is, it is an exhibition that uses projectors to show over 3,000 of Van Gogh’s artworks. The exhibition aims to display his life, emotions, thoughts, and mental state between 1880-1890. However, what makes these displays so special that over 8.5 million people come here to see them? Let’s find out. 

A new way to experience art 

Grande Experiences, the creator of Van Gogh Alive, has done these types of immersive exhibitions since 2011. The idea began when the company wanted the younger generation to be engaged with art more. In hopes of doing so, Grande Experiences created an immersive, multi-sensory exhibition different from any other. In a typical art museum, paintings are on the wall, it is quiet, and it can get quite dull. However, at this art show, there are movements, sounds, and what is usually an A4-sized artwork is transformed into 6 metres tall. Not to mention, Bangkok’s Van Gogh Alive is over 4,120 square metres, making this their largest exhibition in Southeast Asia.

Sensory4 technology

With the development of projection technology, Grande Experiences saw this as an opportunity to create a different pathway. “We want people to connect with Van Gogh’s story during his different life periods,” says Rob Kirk, Head of Touring Experiences. Nevertheless, that can be hard to do when the art pieces fade in colour and quality due to time. Thanks to Sensory4 technology, there’s a clever solution. These large-format multi-sensory projectors bring those beautiful colours and elements back to life. Some even argue it is better than seeing traditional art, as you can see all the details and be more appreciative. 

Additionally, Van Gogh Alive allows the audience to see the iconic artist’s changing states through his artwork. Movement, sounds, and aromas also help the audience understand the artist’s emotional state even more. 

Different areas 

There are three main parts to the exhibition. The first is the immersive digital art space. The sunflower room is the second part. Sound familiar? Van Gogh’s infamous sunflower painting inspired this room, and it is perfect for a photo opp. After finishing this immersive experience, why not head to the third area, the Van Gogh Cafe by After You? There are some special menus made solely for this exhibition. 

Other activities in this event include the AI room, where visitors can take pictures and turn them into paintings. There’s also an art room to paint in, and it’s free of charge. For those interested in learning with a teacher, visitors can pay for an art lesson. Lastly, before exiting, is the retail zone with exclusive souvenirs from the event. 

Van Gogh Alive is located on the 6th floor at ICONSIAM in the Attraction Hall until July 31, 2023. Opening hours are from 10:30 AM – 9 PM. Guests can purchase tickets online at Thai Ticket Major. 

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Two icons of the Bangkok cafe and art scene come together for this special collaboration between Bonci and Gongkan.

Kantapon Metheekul, more widely known as Gongkan, is a Thai artist who first gained recognition during his time in New York. Now world-renowned, the artist works with different media and materials, often times collaborating with other lifestyle brands. One of his recent collaborations is with the Saphankwai and Sukhumvit beloved neighbourhood cafe, Bonci.

Culture

27 Questions: Gongkan, the contemporary Thai artist with a passion for teleportation

Bangkok cafe Bonci collaborates with Thai artist Gongkan

The Scandinavian mid century-inspired space of Bonci has been invaded by the signature motifs of Gongkan, including the windows, selected artworks, and limited merchandise for sale. Moreover, some exclusive menu items have also been added, including the Black Hole Mocha, Black Hole Cocoa, Stardust, and Teleport dark beer cake. Inspired by the artist’s art pieces (where black holes, stardust, and teleportation appear often), these drinks and cake look as Instagram-perfect in their Bonci x Gongkan glassware as they taste.

Lastly, there is one more photo opp reason to check out this collab. Why make the trip to the cafe instead of ordering for delivery? The Sculpture Teleport photobooth which is available only at Saphankwai.

Bonci x Gongkan is available at both Bonci Saphankwai (closes on Tuesday) and Bonci Sukhumvit (closes on Wednesday). Find out more via the website.

[Hero and featured image credit: BONCI]

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The famous saying goes: “art is in the eye of the bee holder.” We don’t know who would hold bees and why, but art is sure fun to look at. Let’s look at the art trends that we’ll certainly see in 2023.

Art is about the representation of the artist’s creativity and feelings. An artist uses different forms and techniques to communicate with their audience. It’s not about the figures on the canvas but everything from the colour palette to the textures that have been created. The domestic art market has grown extensively in the last decade and artists here have received widespread recognition, both within the country and abroad. The art trends have seen change for better in the past few years yet the fundamentals of self-expression remain the same. Having said that, here are a few art trends that we think will definitely take over the art space in 2023.

Art trends that’ll dominate the art space in 2023:

Textured Artworks 

The 2023 art trends could be a sign of the ever-growing virtual art movement, predicting a proliferation of textured artwork. Impasto is a painting technique used by artists to create texture in their work. This involves layering and blending thick paints using visible brush and palette knife strokes. After drying, this technique gives the artwork a new energy and dimension. There is something about textured artwork that satisfies an innate sense of touch and curiosity.

Street Art

Among the most accessible art forms, street art is the fastest-growing art form and will its rise in 2023. Considered one of the largest and most famous art movements, it is applied to urban areas and public places such as building facades, bridges, and highway overpasses. Unique art forms often convey social, political, or personal messages and effect change. The Emergence of many regions and cities around the world deserves attention worldwide. For example, world-famous street-his artists such as Alec Monopoly and Eduardo his cobra create works that fill cities with colour and change the viewer’s perspective on both society and art itself.

Calming Pastels

Art fans will see a lot of neutral shades this year, as relaxing pastel shades are more popular. Pastel Colors have a calming effect on the viewer and will add an aura and theme of peace and tranquility to many of the works in 2023. For example, the artist Calman Shemi has developed a medium called ‘Soft Paintings’ that addresses the relationship between the individual and the natural environment. Shemi has developed three unique painting techniques using this soft technique and her palette of colors, namely; Soft painting, lacquer painting, and window painting.

Visual Art

Speaking of virtual art, 2023 is also set to make an appearance. Virtual art continues to grow in popularity, and works such as NFTs and digital art tools continue to raise interesting questions about art and artists. The Technology behind virtual art has new possibilities to blur the lines between the creator, the viewer, and the artwork itself. Take 3D art genius Gal Yosef, for example. Yosef started his design career when he was 12 years old. His work focuses exclusively on his designs digitally and uses his computer technology in the creative process.

Body Art

First, body art can increase a person’s self-awareness—the understanding of one’s own physical characteristics, emotions, and behaviors. Human vision and mind are strongly influenced by body art because they can always capture human nature and embody the public human nature. In fact, the body is the most primitive and natural form of human expression, and body art is an external form of expression that emphasizes human nature. The art trend allows us to observe the most authentic and fundamental aspects of the civilization of humans.

Drawing

Drawing is one of the most recognized forms of visual art. An artist uses a device to draw lines on paper or another two-dimensional surface to create a drawing. Pencils, chalk, charcoal, pen and ink, crayons, crayons, pastels, ink brushes, erasers, markers, pens, and even metal are common drawing tools. Word drawing is a general expression that can be used in a wide variety of works that vary greatly in technique. Drawing perceptions and concepts have evolved over time, making them difficult to explain. In Contrast, the current definition of drawing is to use drawing tools to create lines on a surface.

The Art of Sculpting

Sculpture Art is used in many different ways to represent politics, society, history, religion, ceremonies, and memorials. It’s not just an aesthetic art form. A tactile and imaginative expression co-located with the viewer, the work transcends time and space. Looking at a sculpture is very different from looking at Aflac painting on a wall. The unique sculpture allows the viewer to look above, below, or directly in. Observers can circle the lifelike figures for unique views and new insights. Intruding into human space, this symbolic richness offers an intellectually immersive experience.

Ceramic Art

The pottery process forms clay and other raw materials into ceramics. The term “ceramic” comes from the Greek word “keramos” which means”clay”. Human societies around the world began producing pottery crafts about 5,000 years ago. Historically, ceramic crafts have served both aesthetic and functional purposes. Ceramics as an aesthetic medium is thriving today, in addition to its relevance in several technical fields. Ceramics are still valued for their traditional aesthetic and practical qualities.

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Shake Shack’s first location in Thailand has been unveiled at CentralWorld and is currently adorned with a colourful piece by artist Navin Rawanchaikul.

Ever since the American burger joint announced that it would be establishing its first location here in the city, Bangkok’s residents have been waiting to sink their teeth into their juicy buns (heh). While it’s rumoured that the branch will open in March, what has officially been unveiled is the restaurant’s location at CentralWorld. It’s very hard to miss what with renowned artist Navin Rawanchaikul’s eye-popping piece.

[Hero image credit: Shake Shack/Facebook]

Navin Rawanchaikul and his history with the Shack

Rawanchaikul’s artwork, which marks the future first location of Shake Shack Thailand, features a colourful array of locations, places, and people that represent Thailand and the burger joint. A tuktuk, the classic yellow-green taxi, a box that has “Wonderfruit” written on it, Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer, and even Rawanchaikul himself can be found on the piece that’s reminiscent of old movie posters you used to see in Lido or Scala. 

But Rawanchaikul wasn’t just randomly chosen to do art for the Bangkok location. Shake Shack started in 2001 as a humble hot dog cart in what used to be a rather squalid-looking Madison Square Park. In an effort to raise funds for the park’s redevelopment, Danny Meyer decided to host an art exhibit called “I <3 Taxi”, while his Director of Operations Randy Garutti started the hot dog cart to accommodate guests. Rawanchaikul was one of the artists who took part in the “I <3 Taxi” exhibit, so his artwork being featured in Shake Shack’s first Thailand location is just a fitting full-circle moment.

A native of Chiang Mai, Navin Rawanchaikul has dabbled in a lot of mediums as an artist, including photography, film, and performance. He is the recipient of the national Silapathorn citation from the Thai Ministry of Culture, which he received in 2010. His works have been featured in galleries all over the world from the Palais de Tokyo in Paris to the Contemporary Art Gallery in Vancouver. He also represented Thailand at the 54th Venice Biennale back in 2011. 

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“Art is to console those who are broken by life.” and that’s sadly very relatable. So let’s get out and surround yourself with art this March 2023.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are five art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this March 2023.

[Hero and featured image credit: Central: The Original Store]

5 Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this March 2023

‘Take Your Time’ by Suntur

The renowned artist Suntur works in collaboration with Trendy Gallery in this solo exhibition that marks his 33-year life journey. The exhibitions include 33 paintings that encompasses his 33 years of memories in which he has “circled the sun 33 times”. With the horizon line as the main component and the bright colours as the tools, this sentimental exhibition by Suntur requires audience to take their time to absorb at their own pace.

Take Your Time is on show at RCB Galleria, River City Bangkok until April 23, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Fly Away’ by Greg Bogin

Famous for painting on a customised canvas, the New York artist Greg Bogin is having his first exhibition in Southeast Asia, Fly Away. As a love letter to his wife, the artist created his masterpieces after a visit to Kauai, Hawaii. The brightly coloured artworks transfer a sense of joy and optimism as if to uplift and fly away but all the while still lingering close to the ground.

Fly Away is on show at Over the Influence gallery until May 7, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘AfterTaste’ by PaKa

AfterTaste, the solo exhibition from PaKa, deals with the lingering feelings that stay from reinterpreting old experiences through our own lens at the present age. Anchan, or the butterfly pea flower character, is in fact the artist’s self-portrait who narrates the story by using different foods as her vehicle. If that doesn’t feel tangible enough, the food installation art is also one of the highlights that interprets food menus in a unique way. Overall, a very thought-provoking exhibit.

AfterTaste is on show at Baan Trok Tua Ngork until March 26, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Flower & Cosmos: The Universe Within’ by Sakul Intakul

In this exhibition that concludes the three-year journey of Sakul Intakul as a floral artist, large-scale hanging wood sculptures, paintings, metal sculptures, sound installation, and more, are generously displayed throughout the whole space. The artist takes on the analogy of the traditional Thai floral net, takhai dokmai, and the connectivity of all materials in the universe.

Flower & Cosmos: The Universe Within is on show at La Lanta Fine Art until March 25, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Waiting Room Live’ by JPBS with DuckUnit

Waiting Room is a cross-disciplinary art project by post-rock band JPBS’s guitarist, Jay Vatanakuljaras. In this work with scenographer DuckUnit, the 75-minute performance will see a rearrangement of JPBS’s new album divided into three acts: Below, Here and Above. Apart from a experimental sonic performance, the project also includes storytelling and design works.

Waiting Room Live is on show at Bangkok CityCity Gallery on March 18, 2023 during 5pm-6.15pm. Tickets are priced at THB700. Find out more via the website.

‘The Comet and The Nostalgic Souls’ by Supawich Weesapen

Fully immersed in an intergalactic world, ‘The Comet and The Nostalgic Souls’ illuminates Nova Contemporary art gallery with unbelievably incandescent paintings. The exhibition is inspired by the astronomical world and was completed in the beginning of 2023, when the jewel comet came the closest to earth in 50,000 years. It almost feels like a different dimension where time works differently in this transformed space.

‘The Comet and The Nostalgic Souls’ is on show at Nova Contemporary until April 8, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Treasure of the Blossom’ by SOE SOE

Having exhibited his works from Singapore to Washington D.C., Myanmar-born artist SOE SOE is well-known for playing with textures using unusual techniques. The “Treasure of Blossom” presents the beautiful rice fields of Myanmar’s Northern Shan’s State with rich hues and bright colours. The uniqueness of each displayed work make SOE SOE many collector’s favourite, and he’ll be here for one month only.

‘Treasure of the Blossom’ is on show at Central: The Original Store until April 16, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Thaï Love’ by JonOne

It’s as raw and uncut as you might expect from graffiti art. Graffiti artist JonOne started his tagging journey since the 1980s in New York, and has been making a name for himself using art since then. Having toured worldwide in famous cities referenced by Pitbull, he’s now in Bangkok to share his amazing graffiti work inspired by Bangkok. It’s showing at the Rosewood Bangkok for three months only.

‘Thaï Love’ is on display at Rosewood Bangkok until June 16, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘The Collector’ by Pavisa Meesrenon

Artist Pavisa mixes her inspirations from her spiritual traditions with creative flourishes she saw in her dreams. Her media is a blend of different layers of gloss, along with matte print with dot drawing. Those painted figures are then whipped up to shape using embroidery. Pavisa aims to be very personal with her works, thinking that the act of painting is how she can highlight problems normally swept under the rug by society.

‘The Collector’ is on show at 1st floor, Gaysorn Center until April 9, 2023. Find out more via the website.

Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this February 2023

‘Cosmic Vibration’ by Nicolas Panayotou

The Rosewood Bangkok’s quarterly exhibition spotlights kinetic art from one of the very few kinetic artists in the world, Nicolas Panayotou. The French-Greek artist takes four equilateral triangles inspired by the Egyptian pyramids and plays with colour gradients. Resulting in kaleidoscopic spaces with the illusion of movement, the artwork suggests a connection to the past and the future, as well as the outside world and the hidden interiority.

‘Cosmic Vibration’ is on show at Rosewood Bangkok until March 14, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Deep in Mind Sea’ by Mackcha

Follow Charlotte into the deepest corners of her mind. The character, who represents the artist Mackcha or Chararat Saraaporn, has an overwhelming feeling of happiness and sadness, all of which is buried so deep in the sea that even light cannot reach. In her little private world, however, Mackcha is ready to shed the light for whoever comes down and explores her mind.

‘Deep in Mind Sea’ is on show at River City Bangkok until February 28, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘The Endless Swimming Pool’ by Phannapast Taychamaythakool

Yoon Phannapast’s second collaboration with River City Bangkok features a collection of new paintings and sculptures that are deconstructed from her time in dreams and reality, past and present. Swimming in an endless pool of everything-in-between currents, she reflects on all her curiosity and discoveries through her artworks, inviting visitors to plunge into the infinite pool with her.

‘The Endless Swimming Pool’ is on show at River City Bangkok until March 19, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Inside Manga Bubbles’ by Eri Imamura

Eri Imamura brings back her life-sized human torso sculptures in this exhibition curated by Rémy Jarry. This time, the artist explores the lines between Manga and reality, which get blurred in the time of the Covid-19 outbreak. According to the artist, the pandemic forced us into virtual bubbles that resemble the way Manga and other science fictions are narrated, with metaverse bubbles as an alternative. This 2.5 dimensional existence of mankind is presented in the form of fibre art, using Native American beading, Japanese weaving, and dying techniques.

‘Inside Manga Bubbles’ is on show at Warin Lab Contemporary until March 18, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Infinite Ride’ by Inson Wongsam

Thailand’s National Artist of the year 1999, Inson Wangsam at 88 years old still gets up to create art everyday. This exhibition is a beautiful compilation of his lifelong artworks that still continue at this very moment, in order to inspire and encourage new generation artists to stay consistent with their own paths, and to never be afraid of changes.

‘Infinite Ride’ is on show at 333Gallery/Warehouse 30 until February 28, 2023. Find out more via the website.

4 Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this January 2023

‘POORBOYLIFE’ by Kasemwit Chaweewat

Through the white fluffy creature and its amiable friends from the forest, Kasemwit Chaweewat tells the story of his life in the form of paintings and sculptures. Visitors are exposed to Kasemwit’s hybrid art that always possesses a hint of street art feels, portraying all the influences that have shaped his personality until present day.

POORBOYLIFE is on show at RCB Galleria 1, River City Bangkok until January 31, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘What Makes A Mountain’ by Yeoh Choo Kuan and ‘Another Day’ by Zac Lee

RKFA Double Bill is hosting two exhibitions from two Malaysian artists this month. In ‘What Makes a Mountain,’ Yeoh Choo Kuan creates his own mountains through his signature paint streaming technique that mimics water movement. Over in ‘Another Day,’ the artist Zac Lee emphasises the beauty in routines, as simple as picking up a book or sketching a picture, using sombre hues.

Both exhibitions are on show at Richard Koh Fine Art in from January 7-19, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Dragonerpanzer’ by Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch

Through a collaboration between Boo_X and curator Nim Niyomsin, Dragonerpanzer is an ongoing series of art that portrays the glory, desire and the power structure by Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch. After the exposure to the Dresden porcelain collection at Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden museum in Germany, the artist took what was left of the Dragonervasen, or the Dragoon vases, and created a life-size tank adorned with Chinese porcelain patterns. Symbolising a significant moment in time, the tank also reflects the attempt for power and status, from centuries ago until now.

The Dragonerpanzer is on show at MOCA Bangkok until February 5, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘The Renaissance Woman’ by Saverio Lucci

The elegant lobby of the Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok will set the backdrop for the prolific contemporary artist and designer Saverio Lucci’s exhibition. Born in Italy and based in Bangkok, Lucci merges European and Italian traditions with Japanese dreamlike influences into the 18 paintings showcased. Under the concept of ‘The Renaissance Woman,’ the artist contemplates beauty, emotions, soul, sentiments, and the nuances in a human’s life.

‘The Renaissance Woman’ is on show at Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok’s lobby and Mondo until February 20, 2023. Find out more via the website.

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Whether it’s to celebrate the changing of the seasons or to honour the environment itself, here are 5 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this December.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are five art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this December.

[Hero and Featured Image Credit: Art Jeeno via River City Bangkok]

Dining

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Dining

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5 Bangkok art exhibitions to visit this December 2022

‘Marco Evaristti Retrospective’ by Marco Evaristti

Marco Evaristti is a Chilean artist who is best known for his controversial approach to art. In this exhibition by West Eden, the prime highlights of his creations are gathered, including ‘Pink State’ and several other environmentally related projects. The proceeds from this exhibition will be funded to his next expedition in Nepal, where he plans to collect discarded garbage on the route to the Everest summit and create sculptures out of them.

‘Marco Evaristti Retrospective’ is on show at West Eden until January 18, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Undercurrents’ by Camilla Engström

Her first-ever show in Bangkok, Camilla Engström is a Swedish-born artist whose works serve mostly as her autobiographical depictions. ‘Undercurrents’ features 16 paintings that capture the transformation beneath the earth’s surface and the human bodies in the times of perceived stillness. Through humour, surrealistic landscapes, and figurative expression, her works usually exhibit distinct themes, among the ‘season’ — vivid and cheerful in the summer and hibernated in the winter.

‘Undercurrents’ is on show at Over the Influence Bangkok until January 6, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Nomadic Ecologies’ by Arahmaiani

‘Nomadic Ecologies,’ comprised of a residency and an exhibition, is developed by Indonesian artist and activist Arahmaiani. As an expansion of her two past series, ‘Flag Project’ and ‘Memory of Nature,’ ‘Nomadic Ecologies’ revolves around two main concepts only, which are community collaboration and environmental sustainability. While ‘Flag Project’ was initiated in Pattani province, the ‘Memory of Nature’ is being created on-site at Warin Lab Contemporary, inviting audiences to reflect on the long-running power of nature.

‘Nomadic Ecologies’ is on show at Warin Lab Contemporary until January 14, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Treasure of Memories: 19th Century Photographs of Siam’ by Athada Khoman and Weerawit Futrakul

Travel back in time through a comprehensive collection of photographs from the reigns of King Rama IV and V with over 60 century-old photographs from Thailand’s best known antique collectors, Athada Khoman and Weerawit Futrakul. The photos, taken by the royal photographers of the Siamese court, are definitely a must-see for history lovers.

‘Treasure of Memories: 19th Century Photographs of Siam’ is on show at the RCB Photographers’ Gallery 1, River City Bangkok until December 20, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘When Snowflakes Fall’

‘When Snowflakes Fall’ shows various interpretations of winter receives through four different artists: Zito Hsu, FAHFAHS, Art Jeeno, and Riety. Whether it’s a child-like rendition from Hsu, an uplifting pastel from FAHFAHS, a wondrous story from Riety, or the unique linework from Art Jeeno, these multi-dimensional interpretations of snow will attempt to warm your heart this festive season.

‘When Snowflakes Fall’ is on show at RCB Photographers’ Gallery 2, River City Bangkok until January 5, 2023. Find out more via the website.

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand. 

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Robbing artwork worth millions of dollars from heavily guarded museums is not an easy feat. However, despite all the dangers of being caught and prosecuted for art theft, it is not uncommon. And, real-life instances of museum heists envisioned and implemented by highly notorious and skilful robbers have also found a way into pop culture.

For instance, movies like Entrapment (1999) or Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2018), which crafted their plots brilliantly using real-life incidents. Netflix also came up with a documentary called This Is a Robbery: World’s Biggest Art Heist in 2021, which has a part-by-part investigation of the robbery at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston.

While some of these mysteries are revealed with the stolen artworks being restored to their rightful place, some are still waiting to be solved such as the precious paintings of the Boston museum, valued at USD 500 million (RM 2240 million), or the rare 1887 painting of Vincent van Gogh, Poppy Flowers, which was stolen from Mohamed Mahmoud Khalil Museum in Giza, Egypt. Empty frames still stand tall at these museums, waiting for the exquisite, one-of-its-kind paintings to return just as mysteriously as they were stolen.

What is an art heist?

Stealing art mostly by physical coercion (for instance, holding guards at a gunpoint) and successfully fleeing with it is categorised as an art heist. The techniques used by the thieves are often imaginative, bold and sometimes gimmicky.

Art heists: Past and the present

Did you know? The first-ever art theft was carried out way back in 1473, when a few Polish pirates robbed Hans Memling’s The Last Judgement (1467–71) from a ship bound for Florence. The painting hasn’t been returned to the Italians still as it is one of the prized possessions at the National Museum in Gdańsk, Poland.

Cut to the latest art heist that shocked the world. A group of robbers entered the Bavarian Museum on 22 November 2022 and walked away with around 500 gold coins worth millions of euros belonging to the 100 BC era.

The most daring and fascinating museum heists of all time

The Mona Lisa heist

One of the most highly regarded artworks in the world, The Mona Lisa, by Leonardo Da Vinci, was stolen back in 1911. In a misguided sense of delivering justice, an ordinary Italian handyman by the name of Vincenzo Peruggia thought he was doing a service to Italy, which was ravaged by the French leader Napoleon Bonaparte by stealing the painting.

With less attention on this particular painting back then, Peruggia was able to escape with the artwork along with his accomplices. He took it to Paris and tried selling it to an art dealer in Florence. The dealer immediately notified the Uffizi Galleries director Giovanni Pog who got Peruggia arrested.

The Boston Museum heist

This might be one of the most sensational thefts which shocked the whole art world. This even inspired Netflix to make a documentary series. The year was 1990 and the place Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, when two convincing-looking individuals posed as policemen entered the museum premises in broad daylight, tied up the guards and uttered the famous lines, “Gentlemen, this is a robbery” and went away with 13 exquisite, expensive and original works of art.

Their stolen artworks included The Concert (1664), one of the rare Vermeer paintings, a 1633 Rembrandt painting and another by Manet. The total worth of these paintings as estimated in 2021, is around USD 500 million (RM 2240 million). Their recovery is still awaited. A few claim that the priceless art pieces are lost forever.

The Museum of Modern Art, Paris robbery

Ultra stylish and super innovative, the heist at Paris’s Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville in 2010, is bookmarked in history as one of the most famous art robberies. The criminal mastermind behind this art theft, Vjeran Tomic, called himself Spiderman after entering not once or twice but several times into the heavily guarded establishment to steal important works of art, repeatedly.

His method was spraying acid until the window melted, providing easy access without any force of entry.

Initially, he only took Henri Matisse’s Pastorale (1905) but was tempted to steal more. Later he took paintings by Amedeo Modigliani, Fernand Léger, Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. He along with his two accomplices were caught and sentenced to eight years. Despite the thieves getting nabbed, valuable artworks worth USD 107 million (RM 479 million approximately) are still missing.

Mexican Archeological Museum heist

Another case of reel-life inspired by real life. The movie Museo (2018) starring Gael García Bernal was based on this incident. This robbery took place at the National Museum of Archaeology in 1985, by a couple of college dropouts wanting to make quick money to fuel their drug addiction. One of the most prized artefacts from their loot was the jade mask of a Mayan ruler.

As outlandish as it may sound, they were actually successful in taking over 124 artefacts before selling them for hordes of cocaine.

World’s most stolen painting — ‘Takeaway Rembrandt’

An artwork from Britain’s Dulwich Picture Gallery holds a place in Guinness Book of World Records for being the most stolen painting. A portrait of Rembrandt depicting Jacob de Gheyn III (1632) has been stolen four times — 1966, 1973, 1981 and 1986.

Because of its chequered history, the painting came to be known as the ‘Takeaway Rembrandt.’

Poppy Flowers robbery at Giza

This robbery took place in 2010, at Mohamed Mahmoud Khalil Museum in Giza, Egypt and is a black mark on the authorities and the Government alike. The art thieves managed to get away with the robbery of one of the most celebrated paintings around the globe, an 1887 Vincent van Gogh piece called Poppy Flowers. Reportedly, on the day of the robbery, only nine visitors checked in but the thieves managed to loot the museum owing to poor security.

There was a rightful media outrage against the museum’s director, eleven cultural ministry workers resigned and police officers arrested security guards for negligence. The painting worth USD 50 million (RM 224 million) still hasn’t been retrieved yet.

The Scream and The Madonna Heist, Oslo

While a different version of The Scream (1893), a painting by the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch was stolen once in 1994 from the National Gallery of Oslo, another version of it was taken along with the impressionist’s famous painting, The Madonna in 2004, in broad daylight from the Munch Museum, Oslo, amid a huge crowd. Few masked men took the paintings away and fled after threatening the museum security at gunpoint.

Although police successfully caught the culprits, The Scream, which is the most expensive work of Munch, had been damaged.

Jewels from Dresden Museum, Germany

This 2019 robbery will go down in history as one of the quickest art heists as it was completed in less than a minute. The thieves first cut the electric current of the Grünes Gewölbe (Green Vault) and then rammed an axe into the glass case and stole USD 1.2 billion (RM 5.34 billion approximately) worth of jewels including a sword encrusted with 800 diamonds and the 49.84-carat Dresden White Diamond.

The police arrested four for the crime but are still on the lookout for the jewels.

Impression, Sunrise from Paris Museum

One of the most daring heists to have taken place in the history of museum robberies was when a group of thieves entered the museum premises and bought tickets to go inside. They then held nine guards and 40 other visitors at gunpoint before fleeing with a total of nine paintings including Claude Monet’s 1872 artwork Impression, Sunrise and a few works by Berthe Morisot and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

Fortunately, the police were able to nab seven thieves in 1990 at Corsica, and recover the art. The paintings were estimated to be worth USD 20 million (RM 89 million approximately) except for Impression, Sunrise which is priceless.

The Saleira by Benvenuto Cellini, Vienna

In one of the rare instances where the thief turned out to be the security guard himself, Robert Mang, a 1543 relic was stolen from the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna in 2003. The police arrested the thief and got hold of the USD 60 million (RM 268 million approximately) worth golden sculpture — The Saleira by Renaissance master Benvenuto Cellini, which was hidden away in a lead box in a forest by Mang.

(Main and featured image: Courtesy Leonardo Da Vinci/Wikimedia Commons)

The post The biggest museum heists of all time, from the Mona Lisa to ‘Takeaway Rembrandt’ appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

The NFT market is booming. Here are the most expensive NFTs sold in 2022, which arguably made the biggest bang.

NFT sales have catapulted over the years. 2021 saw a huge upswing in the interest in digital assets and the sale of NFT projects. The year saw some of the most valuable NFTs grab headlines with jaw-dropping sales and its inertia continued in early 2022. Cryptopunk NFT collections garnered a lot of attention and landed some hugely successful NFT projects this year.

From providing opportunities to mint and enlist your artwork, to helping build a dynamic NFT ecosystem where buyers and creators can interact seamlessly, NFT marketplaces such as OpenSea, Nifty Gateway and Foundation along with iconic auction houses like Christie’s and Sotheby’s have been pivotal in discovering artists and NFT collectors.

In December 2021, Pak caused a storm in the NFT-verse by amassing a staggering USD 91.8 million through his NFT titled Merge on the Nifty Gateway marketplace. Its value was followed by two of Beeple’s creations — The First 5000 Days which sold for USD 69.3 million in March and Human One which sold as part of Christie’s 21st Century Evening Sale in November.

Tech

Apparently, Book NFTs are now a thing

Tech

Tiffany & Co.’s NFTiff turns CryptoPunk into wearable pendants

However, according to media reports, while the wave seemed to have reached its peak in 2021 and in January 2022, there has been a significant dip in NFT sales in 2022. The ‘crypto winter’ seems to get even chillier from Q2 to Q3. Reuters refers to DappRadar and says, “The third quarter of 2022 saw USD 3.4 billion in NFT sales, down from USD 8.4 billion the previous quarter and USD 12.5 billion at the market’s peak in the first quarter of the year.” After an explosive 2021, the lull seems to continue even in the fourth quarter of 2022.

With another year behind us, we have rounded up some of the most expensive NFTs sold till date in 2022, along with their features, artist’s details and what makes them worthy of such sky-high amounts. And, going beyond 2022, the two sales from 2021 also deserve special mention for garnering the highest value ever.

[Hero and Featured Image Credit: Mo Eid/Pexels]

Here are some of the costliest NFTs sold in 2022

Clock: USD 52.7 million

Made in collaboration with Pak and WikiLeak’s founder Julian Assange, the Clock NFT was dropped in February 2022 and became the third most expensive NFT to date. Although the NFT does not resemble a clock or has anything to do with a clock, it does have a deep impact in terms of timekeeping. The NFT initiative is a digital count of the number of days Assange was held up in Belmarsh Prison on charges of espionage in 2019. All the proceeds from its sales were used for his legal battle.

Launched as part of Pak and Assange’s Censored series featuring 29,000 NFT messages, Clock is sold to AssangeDAO, a decentralised organisation (DAO) with over 10,000 supporters of Assange who crowdfunded its sales. The Clock NFT was sold for USD 52.7 million and the amount was handed over to Wau Holland Foundation which fought for Assange’s defence. Pak shared a short note after the end of the auction and said, “Censored was a drop with no creator, developer, platform, middlemen share. All from people, for the people.”

Reminder: Censored was a drop with no creator, developer, platform, middlemen share.

All from people, for the people.

A special thanks to friends at @manifoldxyz for helping with the project as well as donating their portion just like everyone else.

<3 #codeispoetry https://t.co/cAQvu7V0h0

— Pak (@muratpak) February 9, 2022

Pak’s Clock NFT is not the first of its kind which is sold for a cause. In 2021, NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden garnered USD 5.4 million by selling an NFT of his own face created from pages of a US appeals court decision.

Cryptopunk #5822: USD 23.7 million

This piece is Cryptopunks’ most expensive NFT sold till date. The rare punk, featuring a blue bandana, was sold for a whopping USD 23.7 million in February 2022. It is a part of the alien punks series and was lapped up by the CEO of Chain, Deepak Thapliyal.

This expensive cryptopunk NFT justifies its staggering value as it is one among nine rare alien punk series and one from a group of 333 other cryptopunk NFTs with a bandana.

The Cryptopunks collection has amassed unparalleled popularity among NFT enthusiasts. The collection of 10,000 such avatars in the Ethereum blockchain was launched by Larva Labs and is heavily influenced by London’s punk scene, the cyberpunk movement as well as electronic music artists such as Daft Punk. Yuga Labs later took over the collection’s intellectual property in March 2022. This paved the way for the new generation of NFT profile pictures which the popular Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs are famous for.

Cryptopunk #5577: USD 7.7 million

Another digital artwork from the highest-grossing cryptopunk NFT collection, this piece was sold in February 2022 for USD 7.7 million. This cowboy hat-clad NFT was purchased by Compound Finance founder Robert Leshner.

What makes Cryptopunk #5577 stand out from the rest in the collection is that it is one of the few 24 ape-looking punks. It has a darker complexion and is one among 142 NFTs that sport a cowboy hat. However, with a surge in popularity and market domination by the Bored Ape Yacht Club, it won’t be too easy to see a punk ape featuring as an NFT profile picture.

UkraineDAO PartyBid: USD 6.7 million

🇺🇦 2250 ETH / $6.75M USD CONTRIBUTED TO THE UKRAINIAN FLAG NFT 🇺🇦

Thank you to all who supported our project 🙏

Next steps: POAP for all those who donated to partybid, work with Come Back Alive on safely transferring funds

You may still donate ETH directly to ukrainedao.eth pic.twitter.com/GsQBLzHIVK

— UkraineDAO.ETH (@Ukraine_DAO) March 2, 2022

This NFT sale deserves a special mention in the list because of the situation under which it was sold and managed to garner a staggering USD 6.75 million.

On 2 March 2022, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine entered its seventh day and caused harrowing conditions for the people there. In a bid to provide ration and essential supplies to the war-stricken people, Russian art collector Nadya Tolokonnikova of Pussy Riot, NFT studio Trippy Labs and members from the influential PleasrDAO joined hands to form UkraineDAO. It is a decentralised automated organisation aimed at helping Ukraine in this dire situation.

They organised a fundraiser by auctioning an NFT of the Ukrainian flag. The NFT was sold to the winning bid from a group of 3,271 contributors who came together via PartyBid. The proceeds were then handed over to an organisation called Come Back Alive which is dedicated to provide supplies to the citizens there.

This NFT project set an unprecedented example of how the crypto world can come together and help those during a period of crisis.

All Time High In The City: USD 6.2 million

Riding the wave of the NFT craze of early 2022, XCOPY’s All The Time High In The City sold for USD 6.2 million in January. It was purchased by an NFT collector under the moniker rarecollector3000 for 1630 ETH on the NFT marketplace SuperRare.

It is one of the most expensive NFTs of the year and is composed of a red and black animated graphic design depicting a boatman carrying a man across, what appears to be, River Styx.

This dark NFT art was originally minted in 2018, but gained prominence much later. In September 2021, it was valued at USD 3 million and in four months, it found a place among the most expensive NFTs when its value doubled.

XCOPY’s style is quite distinguishable in the NFT ecosystem as it is underlined with a theme of foreboding death and shows a dystopic world. In fact, this is the same person behind another successful and expensive NFT Right-click and Save As guy which was sold for around USD 7 million in 2021.

Most expensive NFTs sold till now

Merge: USD 91.8 million

Pak is one of the most prolific and hugely successful names in the NFT space with some of the most expensive NFTs ever sold to his credit. However, although it was sold at the very end of last year, his Merge NFT deserves special applause.

Minted in December 2021, this continues to hold the apex position in 2022 as the most expensive NFT sold to date. Sold at a whopping USD 91.8 million on Nifty Gateway, Pak has surpassed all his contemporaries by a large margin and set new standards in NFT sales.

Instead of a static piece of art, it was released as a collection of 3,12,686 ‘masses’ which were distributed among 28,983 buyers who then could buy and sell these masses in secondary marketplaces to make a bigger mass. The blockchain mechanism involved enabled a new mass acquired to attach itself to the existing mass and make a bigger value and one single token. After a whirlwind of a sale that lasted 48 hours, Pak set new records to have sold the most expensive NFT art by breaking the previous art record held by Jeff Koons’s 1986 painting Rabbit which sold for USD 91 million in 2019.

Everydays: The First 5000 Days: USD 69.3 million

Mike Winkelmann, better known as Beeple, is another NFT art creator who holds a significant place in this arena with a number of expensive NFTs in his portfolio. Everydays: The First 5000 Days, the second most expensive NFT till now, was sold by Christie’s as the auction house’s first full digital artwork sale.

A graphic designer-turned-digital artist, Beeple worked on this piece — a collage of 5000 tiny images — for a period of over 13 years, hence justifying the high price tag. In fact, this piece helped shed the spotlight on the whole non-fungible segment and made the term known to every household. According to Coinscreed, the piece was purchased by an anonymous buyer who later revealed his identity to be Vignesh ‘Metakovan’ Sundaresan.

Justin Sun, the founder of Tron, was the second-highest bidder for Beeple’s NFT.

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy Andrey Metelev/ @metelevan/ Unsplash

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American artist KAWS has recently revealed his new art installation entitled The Promise and has followed that up with an announcement that vinyl figures and prints will also be available for fans around the world.

KAWS’ unveiled its much-awaited The Promise art installation at Dadu, Children’s Museum of Qatar. The grand artwork was installed on 21 November, amid the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 festivities. Following this, KAWS has now announced the sale of vinyl figures and prints for art connoisseurs all over the world.

Besides the figures, collectors have a chance to own the original screenprint of the artwork, which will be signed, numbered and made available for USD 5,000. Needless to say, this unframed print is a limited edition and only 500 of them are available. The figures on sale come in three colours — black, brown and grey.

While the COMPANIONS come in different colours, the green and blue-coloured globe that they are holding is uniform for all three versions.

More about The Promise

The installation in the Dadu Gardens showcases a KAWS adult COMPANION in grey, passing the globe to a child COMPANION. The Promise figures are installed at the heart of the museum and give the message of sustainability, green economy and environmental conservation.

The collection is available on KAWSONE from 22 November onwards.

Buy KAWS' The Promise figure here

Just as FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is ongoing, Dadu Gardens is proving to be one of the main attractions for tourists, especially families. Besides KAWS’ The Promise art installation, other attractions here include an amphitheatre, majestic permaculture garden and edible landscapes.

About KAWS

KAWS, whose actual name is Brian Donnelly, started dabbling in street art as a teenager in New Jersey and Manhattan and soon, the brand catapulted into a million-dollar name. The American artist’s signature figures have pop culture references and current internet trends. They serve as a commentary on global issues and make a strong statement by the artist.

The post Here’s how to get KAWS’ new ‘The Promise’ pieces appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

“Art is to console those who are broken by life,” says Vincent Van Gogh, and that’s why you’re reading this article. Endorse local creatives and get inspired at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this November 2022.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are five art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this November.

[Hero and featured image credit: River City Bangkok]

Art Exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this November 2022

‘Anything & Everything’ by Aubrey Kurlansky

As an artist, designer, and photographer who finds interest in the human body, art, and architecture, Aubrey Kurlansky perceives these as raw materials and turns them into art using his paintbrushes and camera lens. His works, in a nutshell, explore human diversity and difference as well as the notion of looking and being looked at. ‘Anything & Everything’ displays his wry perspective towards the world we live in, presenting his creative journey through a collection of paintings, photographs, and graphic works.

‘Anything & Everything’ takes place at Play Arthouse from November 5-27, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Yesterday I Was, Tomorrow I Will Be’ by Pomme Chan

‘Yesterday I Was, Tomorrow I Will Be’ reflects on the 20-year artistic journey of Pomme Chan or Tachamapan ‘Pomme’ Chanchamrassang. As the artist lays open her life in all perspectives possible, viewers are taken on a lifetime journey to learn about her dreams, good old days, feelings, and emotions as she grows. By fulfilling her dream of having her own solo exhibition, it may, at the same time, be regarded as her last solo show before fully diverting into the entrepreneur field.

‘Yesterday I Was, Tomorrow I Will Be’ takes place at RCB Galleria 1, River City Bangkok until November 20, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Twilight of the Icons’ by Uttaporn Nimmalaikaew

Through the concept that art and political ideologies are inseparable, these artworks by Uttaporn Nimmalaikaew highlight people from changing times, where our memories of their faces have been obscured with the passing of time. The artworks are on the borderline between two- and three-dimension, painting, and sculpture, produced by layers of gauze sheets — the signature method of the artist.

‘Twilight of the Icons’ will take place at Art Centre Building, SAC Gallery until December 3, 2022. Find out more via the website. 

Hotel Art Fair

The one-of-a-kind art exhibition where hotel spaces are transformed into art spaces is finally coming back. This time, the four-day Hotel Art Fair will bring over 30 galleries and artists together from around the world, including Bangkok CityCity Gallery, La Lanta Fine Art, Pomme Chan, and Warin Lab Contemporary. Across the already-aesthetic spaces of The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, this year’s Hotel Art Fair is definitely a can’t-miss.

Hotel Art Fair takes place at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon from November 3-6, 2022 from 11am-10pm. Find out more via the website.

‘It’s Me Warbie! The Inside World of Warbie Yama’ by Arut Tantasirin

Warbie Yama gained popularity since his first appearance in the award-winning animation, Cheez…z. This sarcastic bird, created by Thai animator Arut Tantasirin, has also been making waves through LINE stickers among Thai fans. In this exclusive exhibition, the audience will be transported through the nine zones of Warbie’s personalities, including Arut’s personal journey. In partnership with River City Bangkok, the creators intend it to be a mutual space for both children and adults.

‘It’s Me Warbie! The Inside World of Warbie Yama’ takes takes place at RCB Galleria 2, River city Bangkok from November 25, 2022 to January 25, 2023. Find out more via the website.

‘Big Hug’ exhibition by give.me.museums

Let the artist give.me.museums display her feelings through a series of simple landscape paintings. Without any particular meaning in itself, these art works exude positive energy and warmth—just like being embraced in a big hug.

Walk into the fields of flowers and recharge your energy with the character being inserted into the paintings: a simple little girl stepping out of her comfort zone and into the world. Talk about relatability.

‘Big Hug’ exhibition is on display at KICHgallery from October 22, 2022 to December 16, 2022. You can find out more via their Facebook.

Brutal Club Exhibition by Karms

Trendy Gallery and River City Bangkok came together to feature an exhibition all about freedom, or lack thereof. Artist Karms have came up with art works that provoke thoughts and discussions on society, imprisonment, and how the world may just be a very big cage we all live in, unable to present out true selves freely.

Michel Foucault is already shaking in fear in his grave.

Brutal Club Exhibition by Karms is available from October 15, 2022 to November 20, 2022 at RCB Galleria 4 on 2nd floor of River City Bangkok. You can find out more via the website.

The post It’s a Spraycation: Art exhibitions to check out this November appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

From a 19-year-old Fewocious to an 87-year-old José Delbo, here are some of the world’s most famous NFT artists.

The world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) is a fairly new realm in itself. Exclusive ownership, the authenticity of an item, digital artworks, collectables, real estate, music and even its own digital currency — understanding the NFT sphere means stepping inside a virtual universe with its own set of dynamics and vibrant features. And, speaking of digital artwork and NFT collections, top NFT artists constantly strive to bridge the gap between the virtual and real arenas and bring alive stunning artworks that evoke imagination while giving strong messages.

Gone are the days when one would visit a gallery to purchase a unique artwork and decorate it as their living room centrepiece. In today’s digital world, there are dedicated marketplaces and online galleries which house some of the most famous NFT collections for you to choose from and buy. Blockchain-minted and uniquely coded NFT art can range from rare doodles, cartoon figures, music, albums, videos or literally anything that one might fancy.

With NFT sales running into billions of dollars, it has really changed the way one perceives investments. Easy buying of cryptocurrency, an energy-efficient minting process and a variety of NFT art can make you feel like a kid in a candy store.

In fact, some of the highest-rated NFT marketplaces have also provided an interactive platform to the NFT community, where both buyers and sellers can come together and chat, discover new budding artists and explore digital art just like how a person would do at the local gallery. OpenSea (the largest NFT marketplace), SuperRare and Nifty Gateway are among the best ones to visit.

The best part is that an NFT artist doesn’t have any age cap and can be anonymous as well. From a 19-year-old Fewocious to an 87-year-old José Delbo, every NFT artist has their own way of expressing and creating.

If you are ready to delve into the NFT world and wish to know more about some of the top NFT artists, we have you covered.

The most famous and best-selling NFT artists

PAK

Considered one of the most prolific and successful NFT artists, PAK also has some of the most expensive NFT collections to his credit. The anonymous artist formerly called PAK Murat, is quite active on social media and is the brain behind Archillect, the AI algorithm that helps you scout for images on the internet to post on social media handles.

In 2020, PAK released an NFT tilted Cloud Monument Dark on SuperRare which fetched 3.5 ETH or USD 788. His highest-grossing NFT Clock ticked in at a whopping amount of USD 20,232,912.15 which translates to about 16,593.059 ETH.

It has got nothing to do with an actual clock but is a digital count of the number of days WikiLeak’s founder, Julian Assange is held up in Belmarsh Prison. All proceeds from this NFT sale go into funding Assange’s legal battle.

In December 2021, PAK released the NFT art collection titled Merge on Nifty Gateway which sold for a record amount of USD 91.8 million and can be safely referred to as one of the most expensive collections in the NFT universe.

Beeple

Mike Winkelmann, who popularly goes by the name Beeple, is one of the earliest digital art creators to have entered the NFT zone. This graphic designer-turned-NFT artist gets the highest applause for drawing mainstream attention and shedding a spotlight on NFTs.

In March 2021, Beeple broke all records and topped the charts for having sold the most expensive and famous NFT art. The piece, titled Everydays: The First 5000 Days, took 13 years to be made and is a collage of 5,000 small NFTs. It was the first of its kind to be sold by the renowned auction house Christie’s for a jaw-dropping price of USD 69,346,250. His other works from the Everydays collection became a huge phenomenon and acted as an impetus to the NFT community.

Other noted works from the talented artist include a plethora of objects and designs, ranging from whimsical giant flies buzzing around Mike Pence’s gladiator figure, with regards to the 2020 US vice presidential debate, to a pixelated Mona Lisa. His artworks are both innovative and timeless and provoke the imagination of the viewers.

Fewocious

Don’t let Victor Langlois’ age deceive you, because in the guise of a 19-year-old resides one of the most successful and ground-breaking crypto art creators. He goes by the name Fewocious, and has garnered around USD 50 million through NFT art. As a prominent face of the queer NFT community, Fewocious is among the most popular NFT artists with a total sale of 3,189 NFTs.

His creation, Nice to Meet You, I’m Mr. MiSUNDERSTOOD, became the highest-selling digital art for the auction house Sotheby’s when it was minted in September 2021. The piece depicts a brightly coloured sobbing man, surrounded by colourful clouds and flowers.

Fewocious broke his personal record in April 2022, by earning USD 20 million on Nifty Gateway with his Paint Drop NFT collection as part of the creator’s upcoming generative art project — Fewoworld.

Fewocious brings the digital canvas alive with his whimsical and vibrant creative designs that are vivid, graphic and reminiscent of his oil paintings. Replete with colourful imagery interjected with monochrome patches, they are an escape from rough and abusive childhood into a more playful mindset.

XCopy

As one of the popular digital art creators, XCopy has long made his presence felt as a brilliant NFT artist. Nothing less than a renowned celebrity in this sphere, XCopy keeps his identity anonymous but is known to live in London.

His famous Right-click and Save As guy NFT became a major hit and was lapped up by rapper Snoop Dogg for a reported price of USD 7 million. The iconic NFT is a meme against digital-art critics who feel this space is absolutely worthless and that online art can be saved and procured just by a click. In fact, this isn’t the first time that the “Drop It Like It’s Hot” star indulged in an XCopy creation. He also bought Some Asshole for a reported price of USD 3.9 million. It depicts a character in a suit and tie against an edgy red background.

XCopy also grabbed headlines for the Nifty Gateway collection Max Pain which amassed nearly USD 23 million in just 10 minutes in March 2022. His digital art tends to lean on the gory sides and evokes a sense of a dark macabre dystopian world.

Sneha Chakraborty

Sneha Chakraborty is an Indian mural and street artist who has recently forayed into the NFT art sector and has captured its pulse. Traditional Indian motifs, images of women and nomadic themes from all over the country become her NFT muse. She mostly uses Wazir to drop her creations and has even worked on an NFT exhibition for them.

In 2021, she presented her NFT art — a collection of images of eight women whom Chakraborty met while travelling — at an exhibition titled Embers. She told Analytics India magazine, “The exhibit collaborated with the gallery, WazirX’s platform and me. It was the first kind of exhibition that had been done in India. (With the help of a friend), we added an extra AR layer to the story, showcasing the paintings to add an augmented reality layer.”

As an NFT artist, Chakraborty believes there is still a long way to go and the community is at a very nascent stage.

Siraj Hassan

Siraj Hassan is one of the most noted names in the Indian NFT scene. The Chennai-based software engineer-turned-visual artist has stirred the digital air with his Caged NFT collection on the OpenSea marketplace since he dropped it in January 2021.

The series is born out of Hassan’s love for glass snow globes. The way snowglobes bring a dreamy effect once stirred, is a source of inspiration for the collection which also draws cues from nature, graphic designs, bold skull motifs and the mental state.

Besides being an engineer, Hassan is also a photographer and videographer who began using softwares such as Adobe Photoshop images in 2014. In 2020, he started selling his works on the internet. As a keen interest in cryptocurrency grew in his mind, he began learning more about NFTs before releasing Caged.

Snowfro

Erick Calderon, better known as Snowfro, is touted as one of the top NFT artists and digital art creators. He founded the generative art site Art Blocks in November 2020, and since then has garnered attention and fame like no other.

One item from his most famous NFT collection Chormie Squiggles sold for USD 8,129.59. Each piece from this collection is a digital chromatic blue squiggle line with dark blue tints and features unique designs, absolutely different from one another. In fact, such a squiggle design is now the logo of Art Blocks as well. Providing an interactive platform for artists and buyers, the site has also caught the attention of renowned auction house Sotheby’s

After selling 7,718 NFT pieces, Snowfro has been on a constant lookout for innovation and to be at the top of his game.

Tylerxhobbs

Texas-based Tyler Hobbs is nothing short of a wizard when it comes to using coding and algorithms to create fabulous NFT art. As an NFT artist, Hobbs did not feel connected to the typical themes of portraits and landscapes and instead sought complete freedom when he infused programming with art and ushered in graphically designed patterns.

The most famous NFT collection to his credit is Fidenza, created in October 2021, which earned him USD 177 million. Hobbs is also well-known for his generative art and his other famous NFT collection Incomplete Control, sold out for USD seven million even before it was officially dropped. Hobbs’ website mentions Incomplete Control comprises “100 unique iterations produced from a single algorithm.” Created as NFTs via the Art Blocks platform, it deals with imperfections.

Dmitri Cherniak

He may have sold only 918 NFTs, but he truly deserves to be on the list of top NFT artists. As a young kid, Cherniak enjoyed painting and sketching and as he grew, he developed a liking for science and math. This is quite evident from the NFTs he creates, which are a perfect amalgamation of the two.

Quite well-known for his Ringers collection on the Art Blocks site, this NFT artist has a distinct and unique style. Abstract geometric patterns, primary colours and futuristic digital appeal characterise his works. Garnering a staggering amount of USD 2,682,000, Self Portrait #1 is his highest-selling NFT on SuperRare.

A popular name in the generative art circuit, Cherniak has an eye for innovation that can evoke a sense of imagination and uniqueness in an automated artwork.

Karan Kalra

Karan Kalra is among the top NFT artists from India. The trained illustrator, animator, storyteller, writer and painter is based out of New Delhi and has been in the crypto scene since 2016.

His digital art comprises odes to his hometown, a futuristic take on the INR 2000 bill and some flying automobiles. With a strong band of followers, Kalra is quite a popular NFT creator and among those in the country’s first wave of NFT enthusiasm.

(Main image credit: Nifty Gateway; @beeple/ Twitter; Featured image credit @beeple/ Twitter)

The post The most famous and best-selling NFT artists, from PAK to Fewocious appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

From post-pandemic art to colourful celebrations of a lifetime: here are the new art exhibitions in Bangkok that should be on your radar this October.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this October.

[Hero and featured image credit: River City Bangkok]

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‘Yesterday I Was, Tomorrow I Will Be’

Celebrating a significant milestone in the life of Pomme Chan, ‘Yesterday I Was, Tomorrow I Will Be,’ looks back at the Thai artist’s 20 year journey and creative path. Following a myriad of genres and various art forms including paintings, sculptures, and even furniture, Pomme Chan fans are invited to admire the evolution and colourful explorations of the artist in this fun exhibition.

‘Yesterday I Was, Tomorrow I Will Be’ is on show until 20 November in RCB Galleria 1. For more information, visit the River City Bangkok.

‘Symbiosis’

‘Symbiosis’ is a collection of works that cause the viewer to question their moods and feelings after living through a pandemic. Through portraits, gestures, and animal images, Narissara Pianwimungsa expresses balance, nurture, and compromise. A thought-provoking experience indeed.

‘Symbiosis’ is on until 19 November 2022. For more information, visit One Wall Art.

‘Songs of My Soul’

‘Songs of My Soul: A recollection of life’s journey through weaving by KACHAMA’ spotlights the Chiang Mai-based, Thai contemporary textile artist Kachama Perez. The exhibit at ATT19 is an extension of the ‘Songs of My Soul’ exhibition at Tamarind Village in Chiang Mai, whereby viewers can explore the traditional techniques, unconventional textiles, and unique compositions that are atypical for handwoven textiles.

‘Songs of My Soul’ is on show at ATT19 from 25 October until 30 December 2022. Find out more via ATT19.

‘Tosachat Eclectic’ by Natee Utarit

Richard Koh Fine Art Bangkok has just recently opened in a prime spot in Sukhumvit, showcasing one-of-a-kind artworks inspired by extracts from the Buddhist stories. ‘Tosachat Eclectic’ derives its stories largely from the Buddhist scriptures that tell the 10 lives of Lord Buddha before his enlightenment. The series of artworks display images from different sources that have been passed through and reproduced, hence distorting and blending old and new, eastern and western, and philosophy and absurdity.

‘Tosachat Eclectic’ is on show at Richard Koh Fine Art until October 29, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Walking through a Songline’

Widen your world with the pop-up light installation of the Aboriginal Australian stories told through an immersive digital technology. The exhibition is part of the 70th anniversary celebration of the diplomatic relationship between Australia and Thailand with collaborations from several other parties, including Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters exhibition that is touring Southeast Asia at the moment.

‘Walking through a Songline’ will be on show at Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) until November 6, 2022. The centre closes on Mondays.

‘The Camp of the Wayfarers in Love’ by Tarshito featuring Inson Wongsam and Rampad Kothkaew, curated by Veronica Caciolli

Brought together by Veronica Caciolli, Tarshito, Inson Wongsam and Rampad Kothkaew come together to explore the areas of culture they’re intrigued by in their own ways. Tarshito has been on the hunt to decorate camping tents with other artists under a nomadism concept, while Inson Wongsam will perform his ritual on abstract paintings, and Rampad Kothkaew will showcase northern Thai mural paintings.

The Camp of the Wayfarers in Love is on show at River City Bangkok until October 22, 2022.

‘Behind the Lens’

In an attempt to encourage conversation amongst new parents, ‘Behind the Lens’ takes into account the often overlooked issue of motherhood and mothers’ mental health. While featuring typically happy moments surrounding the birth of a child, this exhibition does not forget to showcase the peripartum and postpartum depression, or depression around and after the time of giving birth. Therefore, several stunning photographs have been collected in order to raise awareness regarding the pressures faced by new parents.

Behind the Lens is on show at Woof Pack Gallery until October 23, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Nature of Work’ by Gabriella Hirst, Hu Yun, Nana Buxani

Artists Nana Buxanim Gabriella Hirtst and Hu Yun explore strenuous work conditions in different locations. In the Philippines, Nana looks into the art of extracting, grinding, and refining marble, while Hu Yun sheds some light on the Chinese workers who migrated to Australia in the 19th century. Gabriella Hirst revisits the site where Caspar David Friedrich faced his storm in the famous painting, as well as the battle fields of World War I in the city of Verdun.

Nature of Work is onshow at Warin Lab Contemporary Bangkok until October 30, 2022. Find out more via the website.

This article first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand. 

The post Spraycation: Art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this October appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Museums, galleries and collectors have been dealing with vandalism of artworks for decades, if not for centuries. Masterpieces by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci, Pablo Picasso and Rembrandt, known for their history, beauty, prestige and style, have been among the famous artworks vandalised over the years.

Although there has seldom been a logical reason behind vandalising some of the world’s most famous artworks, these iconic pieces have endured many things, including symbolic protests and mental health issues.

Additionally, they have also been a source of grief or anger for some like Hans-Joachim Bohlmann. He was perhaps the most notorious art vandal, whose life story is a tragedy that calls for sympathy instead of contempt.

While Bohlmann vandalised artworks because of his mental condition, some simply used the popularity of the paintings to their advantage. Most, perhaps, wanted to create sensation only to raise what they believe as an important political or social concern.

Here are some popular artworks that have been vandalised

Sunflowers

Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers is a collection of seven paintings of sunflowers made by the illustrious Dutch painter. The series is one of his most personal works, especially because Van Gogh wanted to be known as a painter of sunflowers.

Of the seven, one was lost during World War II and another is in private hands. The remaining five are on display in museums around the world, including The National Gallery in London.

On 14 October 2022, two climate protesters from the group known as group Just Stop Oil attempted to vandalise the painting at The National Gallery by throwing tomato soup on it. The two protesters then glued their hands to the wall on which the painting hung before they were arrested.

Just Stop Oil shared a video showing the protesters, who were identified as Phoebe Plummer and Anna Holland, opening cans of soup and splashing it on the painting.

“What is worth more? Art or life? Is it worth more than food? Worth more than justice?” a protester can be heard saying in the video.

🥫 JUST STOP OIL SUPPORTERS CHOOSE LIFE OVER ART 🥫

🎨 Human creativity and brilliance is on show in this gallery, yet our heritage is being destroyed by our Government’s failure to act on the climate and cost of living crisis.#VanGogh #FreeLouis #FreeJosh #CivilResistance pic.twitter.com/gXXGLsi0ej

— Just Stop Oil ⚖️💀🛢 (@JustStop_Oil) October 14, 2022

However, the painting, which was drawn by Van Gogh in 1888, was not damaged as it was behind protective glass. In a statement, The National Gallery said that there was “some minor damage to the frame, but the painting is unharmed.”

The artwork was put back on display within hours of the incident.

Members of the protest group have been involved in similar protests in London.

In July, they targeted a copy of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at London’s Royal Academy of Arts. Four of the group’s activists glued their hands to the frame of the massive painting and spray painted the words “No New Oil” below it.

Leonardo da Vinci made The Last Supper as a fresco at Milan’s Santa Maria delle Grazie church in 1497. The painting that was vandalised was made by his disciples Giampietrino and Giovanni Antonio Boltraffio, 15 years after the creation of the original.

The same month, two other members covered John Constable’s The Hay Wain at The National Gallery with a more apocalyptic version of the painting at The National Gallery.

Mona Lisa

Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, widely recognised as one of the world’s most famous paintings, has frequently been the target of vandals.

The 16th-century Renaissance-era painting has been at the Louvre Museum in Paris, France, since 1804. On 30 May 2022, a man disguised as an old lady in a wheelchair threw a cake at the painting. However, the painting was undamaged because of its protective glass.

 

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“While standing near the painting, this individual threw a pastry he had hidden in his personal belongings at the Mona Lisa‘s glass case. This act had no effect on the painting, which was not damaged in any way,” Louvre said in a statement.

The Mona Lisa has a long history of being targeted and was also once stolen. In fact, it was the theft in 1911 that, according to historians, gave it international  fame within the two years, when it remained missing.

It was attacked twice in 1956. Once when someone threw acid at Mona Lisa while it was in Montauban, France, and later again when a tourist threw a rock at it. The impact caused the protective glass to break and damaged a small part of the painting.

Again in 1974, when the painting was on display at the Tokyo National Museum, a disabled woman spray painted the protective glass with red ink, as a protest against the museum’s policy for the disabled.

In 2009, a Russian woman threw a terracotta mug at the painting. She was reportedly angry at the French establishment for denying her citizenship request. However, the glass shield destroyed the mug.

The Virgin and Child with St Anne and St John the Baptist

The Virgin and Child with St Anne and St John the Baptist is a celebrated artwork by Leonardo da Vinci, which became the target of a vandal in 1987, at the National Gallery in London, England.

A man entered the museum with a concealed shotgun and fired at the artwork just before closing time. The pellets didn’t damage the painting directly, owing to  a protective glass cover, but the glass pieces tore through the painting making a hole where the Virgin Mary’s robe was drawn.

According to a 1988 report by The New York Times, the painting was restored by a process that involved glueing back tiny shreds of paper on the painting.

It was created in the 16th century and is basically identified as a cartoon artwork — model drawings created for later transfer to panels, walls or canvases.

The painting was acquired in 1962, by the British government through public donations that generated 800,000 pounds (around USD 2.24 million at the time), as well as the government’s own funding of 350,000 pounds.

The same year, it was attacked by a vandal who threw a bottle of ink at it.

The Night Watch

Rembrandt’s The Night Watch has been the target of vandals three times — all in the 20th century.

The biggest damage came in 1975 when a mentally ill man left long knife cuts on it. That led to a major restoration of the painting. But in 2019, a white haze around the knife-damaged areas forced the conservators to undertake another round of restoration.

Apart from this, an attempted vandalism took place in 1911, when an unemployed navy cook tried cutting it with a knife. In 1990, another unemployed man threw acid on it causing minimal damage.

The giant 17th-century masterpiece housed in Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, also famously escaped a Nazi attack. It was partially damaged on both sides during a move.

Danaë

Danaë is a 17th-century oil painting by Rembrandt. It was bought by Russian empress Catherine the Great in Paris in 1772.

A mentally unstable man threw acid on it and tried making two cut marks with a knife, while it was on display at the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1985.

The damage caused was significant. Over a fourth of the painting was destroyed. Museum authorities undertook an arduous restoration work, lasting 12 years.

Danaë was again displayed in 1997 behind bulletproof glass. According to Associated Press, the then museum director, Mikhail Piotrovsky, ruefully told NTV television, “The former Danaë does not exist any longer and we have to reconcile ourselves to the idea. What we have is disfigured, but yet preserved, beauty.”

Rokeby Venus

Mary Richardson, a suffragette, used a meat cleaver to damage Diego Velázquez’s 17th-century masterpiece, at the National Gallery in London in 1914. She slashed the painting seven times.

Richardson did this to protest the arrest of suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst.

“I have tried to destroy the picture of the most beautiful woman in mythological history as a protest against the government for destroying Mrs Pankhurst, who is the most beautiful character in modern history,” she later said in a statement.

Richardson was sentenced to six months, and the painting was restored. In 1952, the activist also revealed that she disliked the way male visitors ogled the painting.

The White Cross

The White Cross is an early 20th-century painting by Russian artist Kazimir Malevich and part of his Suprematism collection, featuring abstract artworks such as Red Square and Black Square.

The painting shows the cross symbol in white on an almost white background. Housed in the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, the artwork was vandalised when a performing artist named Alexander Brener painted a green dollar sign on the cross in 1997.

Brener, who defended his action by saying that he was an artist, stirred a debate in Amsterdam society over what constitutes art and what accounts for ‘terrorism.’

The Bay

American artist Helen Frankenthaler’s The Bay, a classic modern painting from 1963, is housed in the Detroit Institute of Arts in the US. It became a target of perhaps an innocently done act of vandalism by a 12-year-old boy in 2006.

The boy, who was visiting the museum while on a school trip, stuck chewing gum on the painting. At the time, it was worth USD 1.5 million and the most valuable painting in the museum.

Though the gum didn’t cause any permanent damage, restoration work on the vandalised artwork had to be undertaken to remove a small stain from the corner.

Unfortunately, the boy was suspended by the school.

Guernica

Known as one of the most famous acts of artwork vandalism, Pablo Picasso’s Guernica was attacked in 1974. It’s not just because of the illustrious creator but the eventual fame of the man who vandalised it — Tony Shafrazi.

Shafrazi sprayed the words “Kill Lies All” on the painting while it was on display at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, US. He was protesting the pardon granted to American soldier William Calley, convicted for his involvement in the My Lai massacre in Vietnam, by the then US President Richard Nixon.

According to The New York Times, when he was taken away by the police, Shafrazi shouted, “I’m an artist, and I wanted to tell the truth.”

The painting was not damaged because of the thick coat of varnish on it. The red ink from the spray paint was quickly removed by the museum’s conservators.

Guernica is a masterpiece by the legendary Picasso, created in grey, black and white in 1937, in protest of the bombardment of the Basque city of Guernica by Fascist allies of General Francisco Franco, during the Spanish Civil War.

And what about Shafrazi? Today, he is one of the biggest names among art dealers, having created the Tony Shafrazi Gallery. He also helped bring iconic graffiti artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat to the international market.

Black On Maroon

The 1958 artwork by American abstract painter Mark Rothko was on display at London’s Tate Modern gallery when it was vandalised by artist and blogger Wlodzimierz Umaniec in 2012.

Using a black marker, Umaniec wrote the words “A potential piece of yellowism” on a corner of Black On Maroon.

Before his arrest, Umaniec spoke to the BBC and defended himself, saying that “art allows us to take what someone’s done and put a new message on it.” He also said that he was part of a movement called ‘Yellowism,’ which believed in the concept of “not art or anti-art”.

After his release from prison almost a year and a half later, he apologised to the British people for his actions.

Meanwhile, it took 18 months for the Tate Modern gallery to restore the vandalised artwork before putting it back on display in 2014. Following a successful restoration, the then conservator, Rachel Barker, told BBC that the museum “did think the worst” when the painting was damaged.

(Main image: Screenshot/Twitter; Featured image: C2RMF: Galerie de tableaux en très haute définition/Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons)

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur.

The post Times when the world’s famous artworks have been vandalised appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

A new exhibition in town is highlighting the works of famed street artist Banksy in Bangkok, even if it’s against almost every message the artist has been supporting. Naturally, drama ensues.

Recently, it was announced that works inspired by world-renowned pseudonymous street artist Banksy will be coming to Southeast Asia for the first time in the exhibition titled The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits.” Taking place in the Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors will be able to observe around 150 works with only THB 250 as the entrance fee.

[Hero image credit: Hexagon Gallery]

The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” in Bangkok

Now hold up—when people hear the word “fee,” skepticism starts to arise. Banksy’s key theme throughout his career is the critique of consumerism and capitalism. There are so many of his editioned prints that do so, and his critique also extends to the art world.

For example, let’s take a look at “Morons,” an artwork on display at his free exhibition Barely Legal in 2006.

Morons is based on the moment when Vincent van Gogh’s iconic painting Sunflowers was sold to the highest bidder at the monumental price of GBP 22.5 million (approx. THB 920 million) on 30 March 1987. Instead of Sunflowers, the canvas in Banksy’s version reads “I can’t believe you morons actually buy this sh*t” in all caps.

This is arguably the moment that the art market is transformed into a commodities trading market, with the crowd ready to bid huge sums of money for an artwork. Many put these up or store them in their own homes, and the others want to resell at a higher price.

Banksy the anti-consumerist artist

It’s quite apparent where Banksy stands when it comes to consumerism in the art world. If you’re interested in his works with similar themes, check out Sorry The Lifestyle You Ordered Is Currently Out of Stock, 2013-2014, Banksquiat, 2019, and, of course, Love is in the Bin, 2019.

With this in mind, it would be very not like Banksy to require a fee to see his art, or in this case, art that is not his art, but kind of claims to be so. In fact, in response to a previous art exhibition of similar nature in Moscow, he has publicly announced on his Instagram the following words: “I don’t charge people to see my art unless there’s a fairground wheel.”

The museum later issued a statement that a part of the proceeds from this exhibition will be donated to M.V. Louise Mitchell, an independent highspeed lifeboat patrolling the Mediterranean that aims to uphold maritime law without any prejudice. It was bought through the proceeds of Banksy’s artwork and is still upholding their mission till today.

Cool move, but still not enough for the criticisms to die down.

An official statement from Banksy

If that isn’t enough proof, on Banksy’s official website, it states the following: “Members of the public should be aware there has been a recent spate of Banksy exhibitions none of which are consensual. They‘ve been organised entirely without the artist’s knowledge or involvement. Please treat them accordingly.”

Displayed on the website, labelled as “FAKE”, are many exhibitions around the world using his images, which includes The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” in other countries.

On The Art of Banksy’s official website, it also states (albeit small and wrongly spelled) that the exhibition is, in fact, unauthorised. This further confirms the validity of the exhibition, and how it was actually organised without the artist’s consent nor approval of any kind.

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Banksy’s self-destructing artwork Love is in the Bin sells for record US$ 25 million

For those actually are interested in Banksy and learning more about his art, his original works can be found in the UK. All we can do in Thailand right now is to look at his works through his official Instagram, studying his previous art, as well as look more into his messages, themes, and movements the artist has been conveying.

After all, if we’re paying to see his art, it’s like we’re not understanding his art at all.

The post About the controversy surrounding the Banksy exhibition in Bangkok appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Get ready, guys, because everyone’s favourite robo-cat Doraemon will be returning to the National Museum of Singapore this November for an exclusive exhibition.

The Doraemon Exhibition will bring the history and the pop culture significance of the beloved fictional character to Singapore. Since its birth in 1970, Doraemon has been capturing the imagination of audiences across the world and this exhibition invites visitors to consider their own personal memory of Doraemon, and how one of the most iconic Japanesese characters has grown with them over the years.

Kicking off from 5 November 2022, the exhibition will feature a collection of Doraemon-inspired artworks by 28 leading Japanese contemporary artists who continue to keep their love for the beloved character alive through art.

(Images: National Museum of Singapore)

Featuring renowned names such as Takashi Murakami, Mika Ninagawa, and Yoshitomo Nara, the exhibition showcases Doraemon’s continuing cultural impact in contemporary history.  Presented by LEYOUKI, with support from the National Museum of Singapore, the exhibition’s first global stop in Singapore will include an exclusive first-ever public showcase in Asia of original drawings by Fujiko. F. Fujio as well as a small selection of artworks by local artists.

Alongside the exhibition, visitors can also bring home limited-edition Doraemon merchandise. The exhibition takes place from 5 November 2022 to 5 February 2023 at the National Museum of Singapore. Further details and ticket information here.

This article first appeared on Augustman Singapore.

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“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life,” said Pablo Picasso, which is a very fancy way of saying “art good.” So, endorse local creatives and get inspired at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this September.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are nine art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this September.

[Hero and featured image credit: ‘Imperfection’ exhibition at River City Bangkok]

9 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this September 2022

‘The New Ark’ by Director Jacq

‘The New Ark’ is an interactive sculpture designed by Director Jacq and carved by Thai artist Suwat Boontam. Deriving from the real history of the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred artefact that went missing from Jerusalem centuries ago, the installation revives and reconnects the bonds among universal lives together. Along with projects from 12 other international artists, ‘The New Ark’ portrays the vital message of ‘the symphony of humankind’, funded by the Art Can Die international organisation.

‘The New Ark’ exhibition is on show at River City Bangkok until October 16, 2022. Find out more via the website.

Taichung City Da Dun Fine Arts Exchange Exhibition

After a three-year hiatus, Da Dun Fine Arts Cultural Exchange Exhibition is back in Bangkok with a vast collection of artworks from Taiwan. It is one of the most important art exhibitions from Taiwan where 60 distinct artworks, including calligraphy, seal cutting, glue colour, oil painting, watercolour, sculpture, printmaking and more, that won the Da Dun Award in the past three years, will be showcased for the first time.

2022 Taichung City Da Dun Art Exhibition Cultural Exchange Exhibition will be on show at RCB Galleria 1, River City Bangkok until September 25, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Imperfection’

This group exhibition is the brainchild of five Thai female artists: Jang Onanong, Pacharaporn “Jeentee” Baiposuwan, Pang Torsuwan, Suwannee Sarakana, and Kannika Jansuwan. Based on their personal experiences, ‘Imperfection’ is an artistic display of their memories with the idea of perfection in society. The five talents exhibit their unique brushstrokes in five artworks, hoping for the audience to be able to embrace their own imperfection after the experience.

‘Imperfection’ is on show at RCB Galleria 4, River City Bangkok until October 2, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Interpreters’ curated by Akkara Naktamna

‘Interpreters’ is a powerful compilation of over 300 photographic arts from 70 photo artists. Rich in content and context, each masterpiece is an interpretation of the surroundings conspired by the artists. Audiences will get to explore the varying perceptions towards life and society reflected through a vivid lens.

‘Interpreters’ is on show at MOCA Bangkok until September 25, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Just Human’ by Myrtille Tibayrenc

There is no specific body or idea that ‘Just Human’ represents; it is a rhizomatic response to human diversity. The 2-floor exhibition entails various paintings by Myrtille Tibayrenc that tell the stories of greek sculptures, vintage stars, androgynous models, anonymous people, and mini animations or gifs. Automatically bonded by a limited palette, all of her works can be easily seen as a unified unit.

‘Just Human’ is on show at Mini Xspace gallery until September 30, 2022. Find out more via the website.

‘Tapestry of Life’ by Ravit Teutvongse

Thai artist Ravit Teutvongse presents a series of paintings as he bares his soul in the process of their creation. A compilation of his experiences and emotions are turned into abstract brush strokes, and he invites all of us to interpret them into our own. After all, abstract art is a concept devoid of shape and structure—just genuine feelings painted onto the canvas.

‘Tapestry of Life’ by Ravit Teutvongse is available at 333Gallery until October 2, 2022. You can find out more via their website.

a Photo Exhibition: (Un)written Memories of Salaya

Salaya is an area with rich history, filled with memories of the people in the neighbourhood enjoying themselves—whether they’re jogging down the Phutthamonthon park, picking out fresh ingredients from the local market, or failing your class in Mahidol University. This exhibition aims to be a collection of memories through the photos sent in from Salaya locals in order to create a unique assembly of visual history.

‘a Photo Exhibition: (Un)written Memories of Salaya’ is open for viewing from September 15, 2022 onwards. You can find out more information via their Facebook.

RISE EXHIBITION : solo photography exhibition

Madi Bkk is not only beloved by locals for the wine, but also for their Creator Hub that features different local artists on the regular. Starting on the 10th, interested onlookers will be able to observe the beautiful photography of Chawanvit Lertnimanoradee, also known as “Fotofools.” The street photographer aims to display the sense of hopelessness as we look up to the sky, invoking the questions along the topics of life and death.

‘RISE EXHIBITION : solo photography exhibition’ will be on display on September 10, 2022 onwards. You can find out more information via their Facebook.

‘An Artist’s Journey into Cubism’ by Demian Factory

In this solo exhibition by artist Demian Factory, he aims to tell the story of his life, along with his experiences and perspectives, in three chapters. Cubism in itself is a communicative medium, being able to display emotions without being too abstract, and we are all invited to take a look into a painter’s life full of ups and downs in his own way.

‘An Artist’s Journey into Cubism’ is on show at Creativbkk Gallery from September 13, 2022 onwards. You can find out more information via their website.

The post Spraycation: Art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this September appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

A historic Los Angeles building with the famous Banksy mural, Girl on a Swing, on its side is up for auction.

The building is located in the city’s Fashion District in Downtown and became an international attraction when Banksy painted the Girl on a Swing, which is also known as Swing Girl, on its side in 2010.

About the Los Angeles Banksy mural auction

About Banksy’s artwork

Street artist Banksy was in the city ahead of the LA première of his film Exit Through The Gift Shop in 2010. The mural, measuring 12 feet by 33 feet (3.6 metres by 10 metres), appeared on the side wall of the building located at 908-910 S a few days before the film’s première.

It shows a young girl enjoying a swing beneath a huge “PARKING” sign painted on the wall. Banksy whitewashed the “ING” to leave the word reading “PARK.” The swing is seen attached to the letter A.

Experts believe this was Banksy’s way of commenting on the lack of children’s spaces in megacities such as Los Angeles.

The building is a historic structure

According to The New York Times (NYT), the building featuring the mural is itself an Art Déco building constructed in 1914. It was designed by Meyer & Holler, whose other projects include Grauman’s Chinese and Egyptian theatres.

The building initially housed a costume company from where producers of silent films sourced garments.

The seven-storey building with an area of 26,000 square feet (2,415 square metres) was bought by its current owners, Tarina Tarantino and Alfonso Campos, for USD 4 million (approx. THB 146,130,000) in 2007. Over the decade, they spent USD 1.8 million (approx. THB 65,758,500) on renovations.

Why is the Los Angeles building being auctioned?

Rental losses due to the pandemic forced the owners to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2022. The property will be auctioned by Hilco Real Estate as part of the bankruptcy proceedings. Bids are invited till 20 October, according to Hilco’s official site.

According to the NYT report, court filings indicate the owners are estimating the Los Angeles building at USD 16 million (approx. THB 584,480,000), excluding the Banksy mural. While the owners believe the building could fetch around USD 30 million (approx. THB 1,095,975,000) if the mural is included in the valuation, they say that appraisers haven’t been able to give them a figure.

The report says that the new owner might physically remove the section containing the Banksy artwork and sell it separately as others have done in the past.

Quoting former Sotheby’s specialist Holly Dunlap, the report states that the mural alone can be worth USD 10 million (approx. THB 365,325,000), but there is a possibility that auction houses might not show equal interest if it is separated from the building.

“Whenever buildings have a Banksy on them, that Banksy is much more valuable on the building than it is as a piece of brick,” Dunlap told the NYT.

(Main image: Screenshot/Hilco Real Estate/Vimeo; Featured image: Sebastian Roché/@sebroche/Twitter)

The post Banksy’s ‘Girl on a Swing’ mural building in Los Angeles to be auctioned soon appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Art is in the air, and what better way to support the local art scene than to visit the many exhibitions going on around the city. Endorse local creatives and get inspired at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this August.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are seven exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this August.

[Hero image credit: Joyman Gallery/Facebook; featured image credit: ‘Unnecessary Drama’ via River City]

7 Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this August

‘Un Monde Meilleur: a Better World’ by Hom Nguyen

A Paris-born, Vietnamese descendant, Hom Nguyen is an artist that explores the complicated issues of the Vietnamese people who were affected by the war through his sombre portraits. In search for the other half of his lost identity, Hom created a collection of paintings that pinpoint the issues that war refugees are forced to face, as well as the way humans eventually define themselves amid the changing environments.

‘Un Monde Meilleur: a Better World’ is on show until August 27, 2022 on the 2nd floor of Art Centre Building, SAC Gallery. Find out more via the website.

‘Unnecessary Drama’ by Arm Wantaya

Through the humorous perspectives of Arm Wantaya, we are presented with all kinds of social interactions, from mundane matters to political issues. Wantaya’s paintings stand between the blurred lines of figuration and abstraction, often excluding facial expressions since they only add unnecessary drama to the big picture. Curated by Louis Supple, the artworks have been produced and collected over a two-year period.

‘Unnecessary Drama’ is on show until August 31, 2022 at RCB Photographers’ Gallery 2 on the 2nd floor. Find out more via the website.

‘Emotional Virus’ by Napat Leelahapong

Napat Leelahapong, winner of the 9th Bualuang Creative Artist, is also a teacher who addresses his students’ emotional and mental issues explicitly. Identifying these negative emotions as invisible viruses, Napat interprets them into a series of abstract paintings in order to raise awareness on the severity of this invisible illness.

‘Emotional Virus’ is on show from August 13-31, 2022 at RCB Photographers’ Gallery 1 on the 2nd floor. Find out more via the website.

‘Evolution’ by Pichet Klunchun

In this cutting-edge exhibition, contemporary dancer and choreographer Pichet Klunchun takes a revolutionary voyage into traditional Thai khon dance. By stripping away the unwieldy excesses and aesthetics, he exposes the true spirit of the long stagnant art form through paintings, sculptures, and VR technology. Audiences are invited to the weekend live performances on August 6, 7, 20, 21 and the closing performance on August 28.

‘Evolution’ is open for show until August 18, 2022 at Noble Ploenchit. Find out more via the website. 

Misremembered but not Forgotten

In this solo exhibition, artist Trey Hurst utilises fluid patterns and ghostly forms under the theme of “Remembering.” Reminiscing to his old home in Southern Louisiana, his art explores how as we continue to grow and discover our own identity, we disassociate ourselves from the concept of “home”. This series of ink drawings illustrates the nuances of the past, the unreliability of our memory, and how many are still holding onto the past—realising it as not something to get over, but to honour and learn from.

‘Misremembered but not Forgotten’ is on show until 21 August, 2022 at River City Bangkok. Find out more via website.

Glowing Evermore

Experience the meticulous craftsmanship of Thai painter Chaiyot Jindagun. This is his sixth solo exhibition, which is inspired by how light shines on an ancient mannequin’s face. Beautifully woven silk, delicate embellishments, the brass reflecting the sun’s gleam—all masterfully captured in the artist’s brush strokes. Each piece is greatly sentimental for the artist, and it will make you remember why you love art.

‘Glowing Evermore’ is open for show until 4 September, 2022 at Joyman Gallery. Find out more via this website.

Tools Are Validated : Itsuki Kaito Solo Exhibition

‘Tools are Validated’ is the first solo exhibition by Japanese artist Itsuki Kaito. The art works are created with oil and charcoal on canvas, and each piece includes different organs of the human body, interpreted into a “tool.” Kaito’s works have been on display at many galleries around the world, from the US to Hong Kong and Japan. This will be the first time his art is put on show in Thailand.

‘Tools Are Validated : Itsuki Kaito Solo Exhibition’ is on display until 10 September at Tang Contemporary Art Gallery, River City Bangkok. Find out more via this website.

The Tale of Two Cities, a black & white photo exhibition

The Tale of Two Cities tells the story of Professor Dr. Nantawat Boramanand, public lawyer and former dean of Faculty of Law at Chulalongkorn University. The photos shown are of Thailand, his hometown, as well as Paris, which is like his second home. As such, the exhibition features a bond that the professor has with both cities across the world from each other—the sentimentality is shown to the world, and those looking for a good story to feel, you can’t miss this one.

‘The Tale of Two Cities, a black & white photo exhibition’ is on show until 28 August at Central: The Original Store. Find out more via this website.

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Thai Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate, give thanks, and give back to the most important woman in our lives. Of course, per tradition, what could convey love and care better than these delicately crafted garlands? Here are 7 flower shops with the most beautiful garlands for your mum this Mother’s Day 2022.

Being far from ordinary, these garlands are made with more than just the conventional jasmine flowers. Braided and decorated with texture and colour, they’re made from both real, fresh flowers that are always the mood-changer, and from artificial forms that are longer lasting to keep.

[Hero and featured image credit: Ivy & Pollen Flower Bar]

Dining

Where to dine with your mother this Thai Mother’s Day

Travel

5 last-minute Mother’s Day trip ideas you can still book

Where to order Mother’s Day garlands this August

Ivy & Pollen Flower Bar

Among Ivy & Pollen Flower Bar’s wondrous floral creations, whether in bouquets or boxes, the Blue Ombre Garland is one of the items that stands out during this special occasion. The intricately braided Fresh Floral Garlands in blue and pink are also an indicative gift on this special occasion.

Napas

The vintage variations of Napas are perfect as a joyful surprise for your loved ones. In the special Mother’s Day 2022 collection are two-way jasmine garlands with preserved roses, and jasmine garlands with preserved roses and artificial flowers. The garlands are then framed in a vertical box, making them a lovely and convenient gift for both the senders and receivers.

Happ & Fleur

The ultimate flower design from Happ & Fleur is comprised of perfume-infused jasmine flowers, blue butterfly bush, and cattleya orchids, all of which are meant to transmit love, gratitude, and respect to the receiver. The handmade garland comes in an elegant flannel box that can be reused for other purposes as well.

Naraiphand

For a gift that could be kept permanently, the Malai Silk or silk garland from Naraiphand is an exquisite combination of different kinds of silk and artificial jasmine flowers. The silk options of printed, pleated, and poly silk in four colours are provided to pair with a full circle of lifelike garlands.

Cher Design

Specialising in different styles of flower arrangements, Cher Design really goes all-bona fide with its Mother’s Day collection. Meticulous jasmine garlands are decorated with accessories like belts, beads, and pieces of clothes. Some bouquets are added with playful jasmine in indigo, purple, pink, and deep brown for a more contemporary approach.

Vassa Vintage

Under the theme of ‘Mok Flowers for Mom,’ the Vassa Vintage presents its Mother’s Day garlands with preserved hydrangea, amaranthus, and, the star of the show, Mok flowers. Mok is believed by many to represent the state of liberation from all stress and suffering, which is therefore used to bestow an auspicious meaning on the receiver.

Melrose Bangkok

If your mom is not into garlands, Melrose Bangkok’s got a bunch of other arrangements to choose from, featuring white and blue flowers as the main theme. Think bouquet, basket, flower box, and garland box. There’s even an Artificial Flower Garland DIY Set for those who want to get their hands on the present themselves.

This article first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand.

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Art is in the air, and what better way to support the local art scene than to visit the many exhibitions going on around the city. Endorse local creatives and get inspired at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this July.

Bangkok has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the metropolis has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. This has led to a plethora of art exhibitions popping up across the capital city. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with our monthly column. Here are five art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this July.

[Hero and featured image credit via SO/ Bangkok]

9 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this July

‘Poetic License’ by Chiranan Pitpreecha

The Peninsula Bangkok has expanded into the field of art by launching an Artists in Residence programme with the intention to support regional artists and enrich art and literature. For its very first writer in residence, Chirana Pitpreecha, a celebrated Thai poet is invited to explore the intersection of poetry and visual art under the name ‘Poetic License.’ The exhibition has three components, each of which revolves around the topic of the human relationship with nature and its preservation.

‘Poetic License’ is open for show until 31 July, 2022 from 3pm-8pm at The Peninsula Bangkok. Find out more via the website. 

‘Institute of Intimate Museums’ by Kenji Sugiyama

After making his debut in 2015, Kenji Sugiyama comes back to Bangkok with his latest creation. ‘Institute of Intimate Museums – Inside the Head’ is part of an ongoing series where Kenji Sugiyama portrays traditional diorama art in the miniature world with an intriguing twist. Through close inspection, viewers will observe the complex pieces of tiny components in a world of angled mirrors that represent Sugiyama’s inward scrutiny into his own mind.

‘Institute of Intimate Museums’ will be on display at La Lanta Fine Art until 27 July, 2022. Find out more via the website. 

‘Yindee’s Mysterious Friends’ by faan.peeti

Through playful characters and a colourful palette, ‘Yindee’s Mysterious Friends’ takes the audience on a journey to explore their inner self by befriending with the monsters inside. After numerous group exhibitions and collaborations, ‘Yindee’s Mysterious Friends’ becomes the artist’s debut solo exhibition that shows an unwavering spirit of childhood and fairytales.

‘Yindee’s Mysterious Friends’ is on show until 4 September, 2022 at River City Bangkok. Find out more via the website. 

‘EMERGE : Photo Thesis Exhibition’

An exhibition that captures a new generation’s creativity, ‘EMERGE’ is a collection of photography theses by students from 12 institutes all around Thailand. 50 artworks convey different stories of value and emotion, and are displayed freely throughout the vast space of HOP – Hub of Photography.

‘EMERGE : Photo Thesis Exhibition’ is on show from 16 July until 11 September, 2022 from 11am-7pm at HOP Photo Gallery & Whoop! Find out more via the website. 

‘Artificial Nature’ by Nakrob Moonmanas & Mary Pakinee

‘Artificial Nature’ expands the conversation about nature and the human from the young adult book Cheewit Kong Chan Look Krating (1997) into interactive installations created by Nakrob Moonmanas and Mary Pakinee. The audience will be taken on a historical journey of Thai zoological literature, as well as given the chance to assume a position in the game-mechanic installation that explores the role of art in environmental conservationism.

‘Artificial Nature’ is the first exhibition in “The Tropics” series. It is on show until 27 August, 2022 at Warin Lab Contemporary. Find out more via the website. 

‘Love Will Keep Us Together’ by Chloé Kelly Miller

Parisian rising star Chloé Kelly Miller is making her Asia debut with her first ever solo exhibition at SO/ Bangkok. Born with a hearing impairment and also a member of the LGBTQ+ community, the artist’s core creative themes revolve around the questioning of self through self-discovery. You can fall in love with her visual epiphanies at the Park Lobby, as well as the 9th floor.

‘Love Will Keep Us Together’ is on show till 31 August, 2022 at SO/Bangkok. Find out more via this website.

‘Story of My Mind’ by Bow Puntita

Being Bow Puntita’s first solo exhibition, ‘Story of Mind’ aims to bring the best of her artistry to the canvas. Puntita’s works are known for their surrealist, fantasy vibe, that allows the audience to feel the fun and enjoyment through her brush strokes. Follow the adventure of a little girl donning a red hood as she goes on a journey through the 22 Major Arcanas of the Tarot world, and see her jump through obstacles from The Fool, to The World.

‘Story of My Mind’ is on show till 28 August, 2022 at River City Bangkok. Find out more via this website.

Serendipity’s Fate

‘Serendipity’s Fate’ is a solo exhibition by surrealist oil painter Kannika Jansuwan looking into the mythological creatures that may have existed a long time ago. The art collection features various paintings of characters and various animals interbreeding into a unique, new creature that can be seen as beautiful, yet eerily mysterious.

‘Serendipity’s Fate’ is on show till 31 July, 2022. You can visit on Tuedays to Sundays, 10am-6pm at Central: The Original Store. Find out more via this website.

DING DING SOLO!

‘DING DING SOLO!’ is an excerpt from the ‘DING DING THE CAT’ NFT collection that is featured on OpenSeas. Created by illustrator Sumana “Ing” Sumanakul, the artworks are operable with AR technology. This means that you can download their app ‘ARTIVIVE’, scan the artwork, and watch each cute little cat move and play. The second floor is also a cafe and bar for you to unwind in.

‘DING DING SOLO!’ is on show till 15 August, 2022. You can visit on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, 7.30am-2.30pm, and weekends, 9am-4pm at Day One Cafe and Bar. Find out more via this website.

The post Spraycation: Art exhibitions to explore in Bangkok this July appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Chim Chim, in collaboration with Pomme Chan and Happy People Studio, teleports you to the ‘80s and the ‘90s with their latest exhibition: ‘Arcade of Dreams.’ We’re obsessed, and we believe you will be, too. It’s hella bodacious. 

Everybody’s favourite colourful cafe in town is Chim Chim, and ‘Arcade of Dreams’ is about to be another reason why. Whilst the world is reminiscing the 1980s with Stranger Things, we’re reminiscing the 1980s and the 1990s with this creative, cool, and charming exhibition. Bangkok, you’re invited to eat, play, shop, and ‘gram in a rad, retro expanse. Here’s the 411. 

‘Arcade of Dreams’: The theme

For their latest ongoing exhibition, Chim Chim’s multifaceted venue boasts an interactive and immersive art experience that embraces the fun, the funky, and the fabulous of the ‘80s and the ‘90s. The art-inspired social diner-and-gallery, in collaboration with Thai illustrator Pomme Chan and Happy People Studio, pays tribute to the two decades through themed interiors, themed culinary offerings, themed enterprises, and other themed experiences. The one-of-a-kind exhibition boasts a polychromatic design ethos featuring bold colour schemes and curated decor designed to visually teleport you to the ’80s and the ’90s in a very, very bodacious way. Millennials, get ready to relive your childhood in the coolest way possible.

‘Arcade of Dreams’: The art & the activities

‘Arcade of Dreams’ marks Chim Chim’s ‘In Residence No. 2’ artist and marks a new chapter in the outlet’s art journey. The playground of nostalgia invites you to unleash your inner child with a free-flowing homage to all that’s fun and cool from yesteryear. Think retro gaming consoles, cassette tapes, sticker walls, and more. From tapestries to upholsters to cushions to furniture, nostalgia is creatively injected into every detail. Other facets that contribute to the interactive, immersive experience include the ‘Game Boy Mirror,’ ‘Happy Hopscotch,’ and ‘Happy Cube Puzzle.’ In terms of the art, you can explore a plethora of art installations dotted throughout the expanse, from vibrant canvases to interactive games. 

‘Arcade of Dreams’: The culinary offerings

As for culinary offerings, Chim Chim’s ‘Never Chim, Never Know’ motto is conveyed in three ‘Arcade of Dreams’ desserts: ‘Kanom Chan Mille Feuille’; ‘Thai Tea Croissant’; and ‘Mango Sticky Rice Cruffin.’ The themed beverage menu comprises of six options, with three cocktails and three mocktails: ’80’s Flashback’; ‘Jackstone’; ‘Pink Cassette’; ‘Chimmers Just Wanna Have Fun’; ‘Contra’; and ‘CC Player.’ 

[All images courtesy of Chim Chim]

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The ‘Mother Plant’ collection marks the second NFT collection by CannaThai420. Here are all the highlights of this collection. 

CannaThai420, a blockchain-based project focused on illustrating the lifecycle and value chain of legal cannabis in Thailand, has launched its second NFT collection: ‘Mother Plant.’ CannaThai420 is a project by Bespoke Life Science Limited. 

Following the successful launch of the first collection, ‘Seed Plant,’ the second NFT collection features a collection of NFT packs as it follows the lifecycle of the legal cultivation of premium and high-quality cannabis strains in Thailand. The collection illustrates the vegetative stage of real-world cannabis growth, pivoting on the ‘cloning’ process where growers pick and choose the best, strongest cannabis plants in order to replicate them.

The ‘Mother Plant’ NFT collection comprises of 2,000 cannabis PFP NFTs. Out of the 2,000 NFTS, 1,995 pieces are generative NFTs, all of which feature a unique combination of 8 distinctive traits. The remaining 5 exclusive pieces are 1:1 art that has been hand-drawn, created, and conceptualised by CannaThai420 artists. All of the NFTs in this collection were created using the growth process and the outcome of cannabis plants in Bespoke Life Science Limited’s lab as a gauge. 

The sale of the ‘Mother Plant’ NFT collection is split into three phases: 

Early Greenlist Sale: 1 July 2022, 20:00 (Bangkok time) – 4 July 2022, 20:00 (Bangkok time). Each NFT mint costs 0.17 ETH. 

Greenlist Sale: 6 July 2022, 20:00 (Bangkok time) – 9 July 2022, 20:00 (Bangkok time). Each NFT mint costs 0.195 ETH. 

Public Sale: 9 July 2022, 22:00 (Bangkok time). Each NFT mint costs 0.22 ETH. 

For more information on CannaThai420 and the ‘Mother Plant’ NFT collection, visit the website.

[All images courtesy of CannaThai420]

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Brian Donnelly, more popularly known as the modern artist KAWS, is arguable the most famous street artist in the world.

Known for his figurative characters and motifs, KAWS’ creations blur the distinction between fine art and global commerce. He has a long list of accomplishments, and his paintings have been exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide. In the internet era, artists like KAWS have gained success using social media platforms.

As a 21st-century contemporary artist, KAWS has a loyal fanbase, and his works have been appreciated numerous times. He is also the most followed artist on Instagram, with over 4.1 million followers, as of 29 June 2022.

However, he is not the only artist who combines contemporary themes with different styles. In reality, modern art sparked USD 2.7 billion in exchanges between 2020 and 2021, according to Artprice, a France-based online art price database website. More than 34,600 artists have sold over 100,000 artworks, including physical paintings and digital art.

Who is KAWS?

 The artist has been around for a while and has been involved in the New York art scene since the early 90s. 

KAWS first came into the limelight with his signature ‘Companion’ sculptures, having a distinctive vibe from anything anyone saw before. Throughout his career, he has worked with many artists, singers, painters and fashion brands to produce powerful works of art.

This includes The KAWS Album, which was sold by Sotheby’s for an astounding USD 14.8 million, shattering the previous auction record for the artist and exceeding its high estimate of USD 1 million by over 14 times.

Another example is a 121-foot-long inflatable version of his signature character Companion. This artwork was exhibited during Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour.

Many creative and popular artists like KAWS focus on the subject of ‘open to interpretation’ art themes. However, critics may question the validity of modern artists like KAWS, given the recognition and money they are receiving.

So, why are artists similar to KAWS creating these artworks? Is contemporary art just another form of lazy writing, or does it have an underlying meaning hidden beneath the loud colours and abstracts? Take a look at the realm of modern art in detail.

What is contemporary art?

The line between modern and contemporary art is hazy, with many artists releasing their work on digital platforms. The interpretation becomes less evident as we unravel the difference between the two. Fortunately, contemporary art, in the most basic sense, refers to art — paintings, sculptures, murals and video art — produced today.

Though it seems simple, contemporary art is surrounded by complex definitions, personalised by artists who produce them, and interpreters who give them meaning. In the internet era, the exact meaning of contemporary art is still open to debate, and the genre keeps fuzzing with more varieties of artworks being produced every day. Contemporary artists like KAWS are committed to their crafts and often leave the explanation part, further alienating the true meaning of the art piece.

How is contemporary art different from modern art?

Modern and contemporary art hail from two distinct eras. While themes and stories referenced from the late 19th and early 20th centuries are represented in the Modern Art period, anything after the 1960s is usually referred to as contemporary art. To understand this better, it is vital to know that both art forms are highly experimental, and may or may not be used together to further amplify their primary focus.

Both the art forms are revolutionary, with the only difference being the approach and intent. Compared to modern art, contemporary art is more open to experimenting with newer subjects and freedom of expression. While contemporary art focuses on social influence with respect to society and trends, modern art expresses individuality and identity.

Another noticeable difference that defines both art forms is the surface used. While modern art is mainly produced on canvas, contemporary art has a broader range of media, including graphic arts, tech-enabled artworks and 3D models.

For instance, KAWS is a well-known contemporary artist. Although his art is subtle, he combines installation, engineering and graffiti art into something incredible without actually meaning anything or having a fixed purpose or intent. He also mixes popular culture and internet themes to develop original motifs. 

Here are some other artists to follow if you like KAWS

Hebru Brantley

 

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Hebru Brantley draws inspiration from a variety of sources. They range from African-American history, hip-hop, anime and manga, which he transforms into art pieces using his own experience in the urban life of the United States.

The artist has produced a variety of works, including paintings on trains, walls and other urban surfaces, as part of the 90s graffiti trend. His work usually revolves around a thought, evoking the Afrofuturism approach to anime and graffiti. He has also held exhibitions based on street art in Miami, Chicago, Tokyo and Hong Kong. And, celebrities like LeBron James, Beyoncé and George Lucas are a few of them who have collected his art.

Check out artworks

Joyce Pensato

The late Joyce Pensato is an influential figure in the contemporary art scene. Her iconic Big Mickey is still one of the most intimidating art pieces ever, where she used a punkish depiction of Walt Disney’s iconic character Mickey Mouse.

Her works are inspired by a myriad of emotions, which she carefully accumulated with consecutive layers of aggressive linear motions and quick spattering, producing cartoonish and menacing artworks simultaneously. She often cited her colleagues like Alberto Giacometti, Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Abstract Expressionists like Jackson Pollock as inspirations in her interviews.

Futura

 

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Lenny McGurr, also known as Futura (formerly known as Futura 2000), began his career as a contemporary artist in the 1970s, much like Donnelly. After making a name in New York’s street art scene, he started working on his canvas paintings in the 1980s, among other contemporaries like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kenny Scharf and Keith Haring.

McGurr often spray-painted abstract street art in New York’s subways and buildings. He blended graffiti text with pictures, fonts, fine spray lines, and pop colour as he created dynamic, creative street art, often predisposing science fiction and computing technology into aesthetics.

Additionally, the artist takes the most linear approach to art industrialisation. His spacey rockets and cosmic signature style with heavy blotches of colourful paints have found their way into mainstream streetwear, sneakers, and even bottles of Hennessy cognac.

Takashi Murakami

 

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Japanese mythology and folklore have had a profound influence on traditional Japanese art indeed. Takashi Murakami draws inspiration from the spirit of Japan. He uses his characters and recurring themes to create paintings, sculptures, and films.

He has a varied body of work, with several pieces illustrating a nexus between many art forms, cultures, histories, and trends. Besides his personal endeavours, Murakami also helps new artists get exposure to international audiences with his art production company, Kaikai Kiki Co Ltd.

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Javier Calleja

 

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One noticeable thing about contemporary artists is that their art forms are constantly evolving. Javier Calleja is another artist similar to KAWS as he, too, has a signature art style that stays consistent throughout his works.

Wide-eyed figures with exaggerated body proportions, typical in Shoujo manga and anime series, are frequently repeated in his figurative paintings. His career as an artist took off due to these paintings, and some of his works have been sold at auctions for around USD 1.1 million. The Spanish artist is also known for collaborating with major international brands, including Vans, HYPEBEAST, and BIG.

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Yoshitomo Nara

Yoshitomo Nara is a Japanese artist renowned for his artwork depicting kids and animals with kids having cute and menacing emotions. Known for his contemporary art style, similar to that of KAWS in many ways, Nara’s artwork is highly influenced by both Eastern and Western popular culture.

Unlike many Japanese artists, who are proportionally inclined toward traditional Japanese art, the Asia Arts Game Changer award winner takes a diverse approach as he makes paintings, ceramics, and sculptures with themes of seclusion, defiance, and spirituality. Contrary to the stereotypical view of Japanese artists, Nara defines his work as non-manga, and he claims that he has never been influenced by Japanese manga in any of his artworks.

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Eric Inkala

 

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Perhaps the biggest breakthrough for Eric Inkala and his artworks is using different art mediums. Various art styles, including graffiti, pop and contemporary have all been explored by the self-taught artist from Brooklyn.

His style is filled with vibrant colours, complex patterns, and line work, eliciting a humorous graphic language. It is hard to define Inkala’s work because it tells a different story at every inch of the canvas, depicting his unique storytelling skills often braided with intricate patterns and symmetry. Like his contemporary peers, the artist has collaborated with an array of brands, including Brooklyn-based RŌNIN BICYCLES and streetwear brand A Bathing Ape.

Mikael Brandrup

 

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Mikael Brandrup is a Denmark-based urban-contemporary artist with multiple aliases. Though popularly known as Mikael B or KETS, he has successfully carved out a career in contemporary art with his abstract designs and conceptual works using acrylic and spray paint. As he expresses his feelings through his paintings, it can appear confusing to the naked eye unless one does some introspection.

Like KAWS, Mikael also leaves his abstract painting on an ‘open to interpretation’ note, eluding the same scent like the other 21st-century contemporary artists.

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Maya Hayuk

Mandalas have long served as the foundation of complex symmetrical art, creating the phantasm for paintings and storytelling. Maya Hayuk uses acrylic, ink, glitter, spray paint, watercolours, tape and ballpoint pens, to create complex patterns that render the artist’s rich, layered visual sound that uses harmonic and discordant tones, as well as references and original compositions.

She is a contemporary artist from Brooklyn, New York, best known for the bold geometric patterns interposed in large-scale murals. She has worked on huge kaleidoscopic geometries, often exhibited in collections including the Ukrainian Museum, Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art, and Dean Collection.

In 2014, she became the third woman to create artwork for Bowery Mural, a famous wall mural project owned and curated by Tony Goldman.

Check out artworks

Harland Miller

 

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The British novelist and artist Harland Miller is best known for his peripatetic career that spans two continents, Europe and North America. He had exhibited in New York, Berlin, and New Orleans during the ’80s and ’90s. He later achieved critical acclaim with his debut novel, Slow Down Arthur, Stick to Thirty.

Miller has produced an array of works, including novels and short stories, paintings, and works on paper. He sets up his narratives, characterised by their humanity and tragicomedy. His work has been auctioned for six-figure prices in international auction houses, and celebrities like Ed Sheeran and Rachel Weisz have collected his artworks. 

(Hero Image and Featured Image Courtesy: KAWSONE)

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The popular US magazine Rolling Stone has joined hands with the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) for the second time to release two new non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on 22 June.

The new releases also feature two physical art prints, which were sold soon after release. The NFTs are available for auction on NFT marketplace OpenSea till 25 June.

(Main and Featured image credit: Screenshot/Bored Ape Yacht Club/@BoredApeYC/Twitter)

About the Rolling Stone x Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs

The NFTs feature a bored ape and a mutant ape

The exclusive pieces in Rolling Stone x Bored Ape Yacht Club collaboration feature BAYC’s bored ape and mutant ape versions of the ape named by the magazine as ‘Curtis.’

In one of them, the ape can be seen lounging on a hammock at the dock of the Bored Ape Clubhouse. Wearing a yacht captain’s hat, the ape is seen  strumming a ukulele as smoke from his cigar takes the shape of a yacht in the clouds.

The second is Rolling Stone’s collaboration with Mutant Ape Yacht Club. In it, the ape can be seen escaping what the magazine describes as “a mutant slime volcano on his motorcycle, outrunning – and outwitting – the barreling plume of lava behind him.”

How to bid for the NFTs?

The bidding for the two NFTs, both of which are animated, is on. Anyone can place their bid on OpenSea over the next two days in the same way as other NFT bids are placed on the marketplace. Bids for each of the NFTs have to be placed separately.

Payment can be made in ApeCoin through the official Bored Ape Yacht Club merch store.

Winners not only get the NFTs but also receive special collector’s items signed by Yuga Labs founders who created BAYC. The collector’s item also bear the signature of the artists and the CEO of Rolling Stone.

The physical art prints, which were sold out within their limited time-frame, were offered for USD 100 in ApeCoin, excluding shipping costs. Each of the prints measure 8.5 x 11 inches on 290 GSM fine art paper.

Rolling Stone released its first-ever digital cover NFT in 2021 with BAYC. Two apes, including a mutant, were featured on the cover complete with the Rolling Stone logo.

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Hong Kong.

The post Rolling Stone partners with Bored Ape Yacht Club for second NFT drop appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Art Basel Switzerland is taking on a futuristic tangent this year by embracing NFTs.

Non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, are all the rage at the Art Basel fair in Switzerland, where the world of digital assets is taking off.

Artist Jeff Koons plans to send 125 miniature sculptures to the moon with multi-billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX company.

The sculptures — set to be installed 384,400 kilometres apart from their owners — will be sold as NFTs, which work like certificates of ownership.

The “Moon Phases” statues come with a photo of their lunar location, and buyers will also be able to take home a sculpture with a gemstone marking their extra-terrestrial counterpart’s place on the moon.

“We’re also seeing it for the first time,” said Pace gallery director Marc Glimcher as he unveiled a moon-shaped statue about the size of a beach ball at his stand in Basel.

[Hero Image Credit: Kovacs Mate/Unsplash]

Elsewhere at Art Basel, Turkish artist Ozgur Kar’s LCD display of a man surrounded by skeletons is being sold by the French gallery Edouard Montassut.

The Vive Arts platform, meanwhile, offers a dive into digital art with the help of augmented reality glasses, presenting an avatar of the German artist Albert Oehlen in a 3D universe.

The fair, which runs from June 16-19, also features a host of non-digital works — from an installation by Franco-Chinese artist Huang Yong Ping depicting a kitchen strewn with giant cockroaches, to a series of portraits carved in wood by Franco-Cameroonian artist Barthelemy Toguo.

A spider sculpture by the French-American sculptor Louise Bourgeois fetched $40 million.

Along with sales of yachts, luxury cars, watches and jewellery, the art market recovered strongly in 2021 after the shock of the pandemic in 2020.

The stock market rebounded sharply last year, swelling the coffers of the ultra-rich — and inflation is giving wealthy collectors yet another reason to splash out on a multi-million-dollar painting.

Pace is one of the few major galleries to have ventured into the field of NFTs. According to Clare McAndrew, author of an art market report for Art Basel, only six percent of galleries sold NFTs in 2021.

Since peaking in August 2021, NFTs have plummeted. While art-related NFT sales volumes soared to $945 million in August, they fell to $366 million in January and then to $101 million in May, according to McAndrew’s records.

These ups and downs don’t faze the owner of the Pace gallery though, who believes that NFTs represent a “new methodology for distributing digital art”.

This article is published via AFP Relaxnews. 

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Welcome to our monthly column where we feature the most interesting, exciting art exhibitions happening around town. Show some love to local creatives and go on a spraycation at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this June.

Bangkok is brimming with creativity. The buzzing metropolis has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years or so. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the capital city has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. Consequently, Bangkok is now home to a plethora of cool art shows. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with this monthly column of ours. Here are 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this June 2022. 

[Hero image credit: River City Bangkok; featured image credit: 6060 Arts Space]

8 art exhibitions in Bangkok this June

‘Rainbowtopia’ by Spectrum

In celebration of Pride Month 2022, Spectrum is hosting a three-day event in the capital city this month. The festival of Pride will feature a series of LGBTQ+-related activities. Think panel discussions, art exhibitions, live music, mental health services, film screenings, workshops, and more. The LGBTQ+ media platform is hosting the event at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. 

Art gallery: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
Date(s): 17-19 June 2022

‘Gifts of the Sea’ by Anna Zolotukhina

‘Gifts of the Sea’ is Central: The Original Store’s latest exhibition and was launched with the intention to raise awareness of World Environment Day which occurred earlier this month on 5 June 2022. This eco-conscious art exhibition features the works of Russian artist Anna Zolotukhina, produced in collaboration with Whale Tail Phuket. The exhibition features a collection of beautiful recycled decorative art created from waste, with the intention to raise awareness on the earth-destroying issue that is plastic pollution.

Art gallery: Central: The Original Store 
Date(s): Until 26 June 2022

‘FOOTBRIDGE’ by Thamarong Wanarithikul 

This solo photographic exhibition is focused on the literal meaning of the term ‘footbridge,’ or as the locals call it: saphan loi. On his way to work, Thamarong Wanarithikul, the artist behind this exhibition, observes locals from a footbridge in Bangkok. He turned this observation into art by capturing photographs of locals commuting with large loads on motorbikes, all of which were taken from the same footbridge. 

Art gallery: 6060 Arts Space
Date(s): Until 29 June 2022

‘People and Their World’ by Jatenipat Ketpradit

This solo photography exhibition, ‘People and Their World,’ is undoubtedly a must-see. Jatenipat Ketpradit, also known as JKBoy, captures the lives of tribal people around the world at numerous locations including the Altai Mountains, the Mongolia-Russia Border, Siberut, and Ethiopia. In order to capture the photographs that depict the lives and spirits of the tribes realistically, the Thai photographer lived with the people from different tribes as he faced harsh weather, challenging terrains, and cultural differences. This exhibition’s series of photographs has attained several accolades including ‘Photographer of the Year 2021,’ three gold medals, and more.

Art gallery: River City Bangkok 
Date(s): Until 30 June 2022

‘The Colors of Jazz’ by Jirapatt Aungsumalee

For his first-ever solo exhibition, renowned jazz lover Jirapatt Aungsumalee coalesces the two fields of art: visual art and music. The artist conveys his emotions and love for the musical genre in the form of 19 abstract paintings. He achieves this by adapting the tone, the melody, and the rhythm of jazz music to become colour and lines on a canvas, with the intention to invoke jazz music in audiences’ minds with his art. 

Art gallery: Xspace
Date(s): Until 30 June 2022

‘Out of this World’ by Tawee Ratchaneekorn and Torlarp

A dual exhibition by two artists from different generations, ‘Out of this World,’ as the name suggests, is all about creating art that exceeds the ordinary. In this exhibition, Tawee Ratchaneekorn allows his imagination to run wild as he creates art that helps him escape the ongoing social issues and the disparity of circumstances, and as a result, placing his hope in future generations. On the other hand, in contrast to envisioning the future, Torlarp Larpjaroensook searches the past through layers of time and space by investigating our roots, a recollection of selves, and our precedents. This exhibition embraces the science fiction genre, and it is where the future meets the past in the present.

Art gallery: MOCA Bangkok 
Date(s): Until 10 July 2022

‘and then there were three’ by Sigurd Bronger, Runa Vethal Stølen, and Reinhold Ziegler 

ATTA Gallery brings together and presents the solo exhibitions of three Norwegian contemporary jewellery artists: Sigurd Bronger, Runa Vethal Stølen, and Reinhold Ziegler. The exhibition showcases a plethora of exquisite arts and crafts pieces that offer a glimpse into the field of contemporary art jewellery. Different styles, different concepts, different forms, different materials, different techniques all under one name: ’and then there were three.’

Art gallery: ATTA Gallery 
Date(s): Until 31 July 2022

‘PULSE Chroma 2022 – Art Exhibition Celebrating Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Well-being’ by PULSE Social Enterprise

In commemoration of Pride Month 2022, PULSE Social Enterprise is launching an exhibition that celebrates diversity and inclusivity in a loud and proud manner. ‘PULSE Chroma 2022- Art Exhibition Celebrating Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Well-being’ showcases a wide range of artworks including photography, digital arts, fine arts, and light installations. All of the works are displayed and sold across all five PULSE Gallery locations in Bangkok.

Art gallery: PULSE Gallery 
Date(s): Until 31 August 2022

The post Spraycation: 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this June appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Welcome to our monthly column where we feature the most interesting and exciting art exhibitions happening around town. Show some love to local creatives and go on a spraycation at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this May 2022. 

Bangkok is brimming with creativity. The buzzing metropolis has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years or so. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs, the capital city has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. Consequently, Bangkok is now home to a plethora of cool art shows. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with this monthly column of ours. Here are 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this May 2022.

[Hero image credit: Bodhisattava Lgbtq+ Gallery; featured image credit: River City Bangkok]

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8 art exhibitions in Bangkok this May 2022

‘HORIZON’ by Nova Contemporary

First up, we’ve got an exhibition by Nova Contemporary. In commemoration of the gallery’s six-year journey in contemporary art, ‘HEXAGON’ presents numerous artworks by numerous artists. From installations to moving images, to paintings to sculptural work, this exhibition showcases the gallery’s dedication to endorsing artists in different practices throughout the years.

Art gallery: Nova Contemporary 
Dates: Until 17 May 2022

‘a journey’ by Sivika Prakobsantisukh and Nat Prakobsantisukh

If your interests lie in photography, we recommend checking this exhibition out. It’s a photo essay exhibition by Sivika Prakobsantisukh and Nat Prakosantisukh titled ‘a journey.’ This exhibition is inspired by Jorge Luis Borges’ quote: “I am not sure that I exist, actually. I am all the writers that I have read, all the people that I have met, all the women that I have loved; all the cities that I have visited.’

Art gallery: PLAY art house 
Dates: Until 22 May 2022

‘PERCEPTION’ by Thosaporn Suthum 

Next, we’ve got a solo painting exhibition by Thosaporn Suthum, a Thai female abstract painter. The movement of Abstract Expressionism marked the theme of ‘process’ in the history of art, and  ’PERCEPTION’ revisits this notion in art-making. The eight artworks showcased investigate the practice that emphasises the interaction between creator and medium, and the meaning behind the artworks conveys emotions that are harmonic and at times chaotic. 

Art gallery: La La Finte Art 
Dates: Until 8 June 2022

‘Blue Fantasy’ by Kamonlak Sukchai

Here is a photographic solo exhibition by Kamonlak Sukchai. The ‘Blue Fantasy’ series exhibits the artist’s vibrant collages of photographs, collective images, letters, and historical documents, all of which intertwine together to reflect the complex layers of the system’s inequality. All in all, the Thai photographer makes an artistic argument that resembles Greek philosopher Plato’s ‘Allegory of the Cave.’ 

Art gallery: HOP – Hub Of Photography 
Dates: Until 19 June 2022

‘Chronicle of the Landscape’ by Sakarin Krue-On

A curatorial essay by Rémy Jarry, ‘Chronicle of the Landscape’ is a photographic installation by Thai contemporary artist Sakarin Krue-On. The multilayered project features a series of photographs that not only capture the art of landscapes and the artist’s past achievements, but also address environmental concerns. In this exhibition, Sakarin Krue-On stages the ongoing mutation of the relationship of humankind with both the natural and the media environments. 

Art gallery: Warin Lab Contemporary 
Dates: Until 25 June 2022

‘Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day?’ by Eight Artists 

This group art exhibition fully embraces the summer season. ‘Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day’ features the artworks of eight artists: Chubbynida, Huatoh Story, MEimo, Munins, Smaisiam, Tuagomstudio, Tum Ulit, and Warbie Yama. The eight artists narrate their summer stories by incorporating famous characters. As the title suggests, the name is inspired by William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18. 

Art gallery: River City Bangkok 
Dates: 14 May 2022 – 26 June 2022

‘BKK COMICS ART FESTIVAL’ by Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre

As the name suggests, this one’s all about comic art. Expect a sensational array of events and activities at this two-day convention held by Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre (BACC). ‘BKK COMICS ART FESTIVAL’ is ready to jump into full swing with comic book creatives, publishers, and scholars.

Art gallery: BACC
Dates: 14-15 May 2022

‘Our Trans Life Journey’ by Watsamon Tri-yayasakda

Show your love and support to the city’s LGTBQ+ community at Bodhisattava Lgbtq+ Gallery. Founded in 2020, the gallery marks Thailand’s first art space dedicated to showcasing the works of LGBTQ+ artists across Southeast Asia. ‘Our Trans Life Journey,’ as indicated by the name, is a display of self-portraits and writings of the youth that identify as trans.

Art gallery: Bodhisattava Lgbtq+ Gallery
Dates: Until 31 May 2022

The post Spraycation: 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this May 2022 appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Welcome to our monthly column where we feature the most interesting and exciting art exhibitions happening around town. Show some love to local creatives and go on a spraycation at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this April 2022. 

Bangkok is brimming with creativity. The buzzing metropolis has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years or so. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs, the capital city has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. Consequently, Bangkok is now home to a plethora of cool art shows. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with this monthly column of ours. Here are 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this April 2022. 

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8 Art Exhibitions to Check Out in Bangkok this April 2022

‘Bangkok Photo Exhibition’ by Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

First on the list is a photography exhibition. This time, it’s one that’s dedicated to exhibiting the diverse talent of photographers. At ‘Bangkok Photo Exhibition’ at the BACC, expect a collection of 80 printed works submitted by photographers spanning over 40 countries. Brace yourself for an inclusive group show. 

Art gallery: BACC
Dates: Until 10 April 2022

‘A Minor History, Part II: Beautiful Things’ by Apichatpong Weerasethakul

If you’re familiar with the works of esteemed Thai independent film director, film producer, and screenwriter, we believe this immersive exhibition will pique your interest. 100 Tonson Foundation invites you to delight in a reinterpretation of the director’s work presented as a visual art exhibition. Here, the story of how the Mekong River changed over lockdown is chronicled through art.

Art gallery: 100 Tonson Foundation 
Dates: Until 10 April 2022

‘The Hope and Peace Collection for Ukraine’ by Viktoria Vorotina 

If you wish to show your support to the people of Ukraine, here’s art dedicated to a good cause. Ukranian artist Viktoria Vorotina interprets ‘hope and peace’ through abstract, polychromatic paintings. Hosted by and at River City Bangkok, all the proceeds from the artwork sales go towards The Igor Saviors with the intention to support the surgeon and the director of the old age home in Ukraine. View the paintings here. 

Art gallery: River City Bangkok 
Dates: Until 24 April 2022

‘Ma-Der-La!’ by Ittiphon Phattarachon

An exhibition of pop art paintings, talented Thai contemporary artist Ittiphon Phattarachon brings Isan’s culture, tradition, and beliefs into his work. This, combined with his creative mind, results in a pop art exhibition featuring gimmicks with bright and bold colours that express messages and comedy. ‘Ma-Der-La!’ is an Isan expression that means ‘Come on, girl!’ 

Art gallery: River City Bangkok 
Dates: Until 24 April 2022

‘BODYSCRIPT’ by Aubrey Kurlansky 

Next up, we’ve got a provocative photography exhibition. Aubrey Kurlansky, the artist behind this exhibition, creates art with the intention to tackle issues of body dysmorphia and low self-image. He creates inclusive art by allowing everyone to be heroic in their own self-image. ‘BODYSCRIPT’ features a small but prime selection of the 700+ people Aubrey has photographed. The photography exhibition is a dialogue about the human body via photography and visual metaphor, with 50% of profits from sales going to the Shinta Mani Foundation for conservation and wildlife protection.

‘Take Your Seat Together’ by the Embassy of Canada 

A photography exhibition by ICONSIAM and the Embassy of Canada, ‘Take Your Seat Together’ commemorates the 60th anniversary of Canada-Thailand diplomatic relations by featuring a selection of the thousands of photographs that showcase the beauty of both countries and the connections between them. The images are taken by celebrated Canadian photographer Randy VanderStarren and his son Randy. 

Art gallery: ICONSIAM
Dates: Until 30 April 2022

‘The Broken White Umbrella’ by Sawangwongse Yawnghwe

In this solo exhibition, internationally-exhibited artist Sawangwongse Yawnghwe expresses his response to the contemporary events in Myanmar through art. In this body of work, the artist reinterprets archival images from early-mid twentieth century Myanmar into modernist compositions featuring Barnett Newman-like bands of colour. 

Art gallery: Nova Contemporary 
Dates: Until 30 April 2022

‘New World’ by Adlane Samet

Recently-opened contemporary art gallery Over the Influence invites you to browse through the creative work of Algerian artist Adlane Samet. ‘New World’ marks the artist’s debut exhibition in Asia. Dancing the fine line between aggression and sensitivity, his brushstrokes reflect the turbulent emotions that belie the bright colours and arresting compositions, an aesthetic inspired by the drawings of children. All in all, his work alludes to the expressionism and Art Brut art movements. 

Art gallery: Over the Influence 
Dates: Until 1 May 2022

The post Spraycation: 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this April 2022 appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Welcome to our monthly column where we feature the most interesting and exciting art exhibitions happening around town. Show some love to local creatives and go on a spraycation at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this March 2022.

Bangkok is brimming with creativity. The buzzing metropolis has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the capital city has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. Consequently, Bangkok is now home to a plethora of cool art shows. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with this monthly column of ours. Here are 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this March 2022. 

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‘Art Move’ by Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

The city’s all-in-one inspiration destination art exhibition ‘Art Move’ is a fundraising exhibition for the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. ‘Art Move’ is a product of a collaboration between the creative institution and 49 artists, including private galleries. Expect contemporary artworks that beautifully reflect the diversity of Thai contemporary art forms as well as endorse the dynamism in Thailand’s art collection circle.

Art gallery: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
Date: Until 6 March 2022

‘AMBIVALENCE’ by SammyN

Another exhibition to check out this March 2022 at River City Bangkok is this one by SammyN, an Israeli multidisciplinary artist. ‘AMBIVALENCE’ invites viewers to look into and explore the inner self through the multiple female portrait paintings whose faces are concealed behind filters, and as a result, encourage you to ignite your imagination by asking questions. The artist’s work draws inspiration from the influence that social media has on this generation. 

Art gallery: River City Bangkok
Date: Until 27 March 2022

‘City of Sky’ by Zhao Zhao

The artist behind Tang Contemporary Art’s latest ongoing solo exhibition is Zhao Zhao and the curator is Cui Cancan. ‘City of Sky’ is the Chinese artist’s longest-running subject as it displays a series of sky paintings developed during Zhao Zhao’s decade-long travels. Fluid and abstract, all of the paintings spotlight different shades of two colours: white and blue.

Art gallery: Tang Contemporary Art 
Date: Until 19 March 2022

Thailand Digital Arts Festival 2022’

For something unconventional and NFT-based, head over to ICONSIAM for the ‘Thailand Digital Arts Festival 2022.’ Siam Piwat, ICONSIAM, Baandam Museum, and KASKIKORN X have partnered up for Thailand’s and Asia’s first digital art showcase that features masterpieces in an NFT format. TDAF 2022 features over 1,300 art pieces from 130 celebrated Thai artists.

Art gallery: ICONSIAM
Date: Until 20 March 2022

‘Less is OK’ 

Curated by Nim Niyomsin, this retrospective posthumous exhibition is a tribute to the late Chavalit Soemprungsuk, an honoured Thai artist. From his dedication to art, to his unique fashion sense, viewers are invited to embark on a journey that explores various angles of the artist’s life beyond his artworks. The works and materials displayed at this exhibition follow Chavalit’s life from a young age right up to his last moments. Throughout his life, the multitalented artist believed that ‘less is OK,’ rather than ‘less is more.’

Art gallery: River City Bangkok 
Date: Until 27 April 2022

‘BlueBlurryMonday’ by Isariyabhorn Wanmarat

Kalwit Studio & Gallery presents Isaryiabhorn Wanmarat’s first-ever solo exhibition, ‘BlueBlurryMonday.’ Her journey began with putting pencil to paper as a hobby and here she is with her first exhibition. Isariyabhorn loves using coloured pencils in her artwork as she believes that it is a material that’s approachable and a material she’s comfortable using. Her artworks are a review of her life stories and experiences.

Art gallery: Kalwit Studio & Gallery
Date: Until 3 April 2022

‘CROSS OVER Vol.36’ by Peddy Pot

Developed by Peddy Pot back in 2017, ‘CROSS OVER’ is an alternative art group from Japan that is now at 500 members. For all exhibitions, ‘CROSS OVER’ gathers different creative participants including painters, graphic designers, dancers, and photographers to showcase Japanese art and culture around Southeast Asia and East Asia. For vol.36, Peddy Pot has chosen 6060 Arts Space as the venue.

Art gallery: 6060 Arts Space
Date: Until 29 March 2022

‘Art Cart 06: I love you to Phrom Phong and Back’ by 15 Curators

SAC Gallery brings back their ‘Art Cart’ series with ‘I love you to Phrom Phong and Back.’ Inspired by the phrase ‘I love you to the moon and back,’ the latest edition of the series is a presentation by 15 curators. We already love the name of this exhibition.

Art gallery: SAC Gallery
Date: Until 9 April 2022

The post Spraycation: 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this March 2022 appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Our favourite creative event is back. Bangkok Design Week 2022 runs from 5-13 February 2022 and here are the coolest, most Instagrammable spots to check out.

As per usual, Bangkok Design Week aims to push forward the city’s creative economy and endorse creative potential. This once-a-year creative design festival provides a space for designers, entrepreneurs, and creatives to network and connect with each other. The annual event aims to share visions and achievements that revitalise the potential of Bangkok, and it’s doing exactly that. 

For Bangkok Design Week 2022, the theme is ‘Co with Creation’ and runs for a little over a week from 5-13 February 2022. From exhibitions to workshops to talks, this year’s festival features a total of 264 programs. Here is our pick of the coolest, most Instagrammable spots from Bangkok Design Week 2022. 

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‘The Standard Presents Jaime Hayon’ by The Standard, Bangkok Mahakahon

The Standard, Hua Hin boasts the work of the acclaimed Jaime Hayon. Here, the shadow theatre exhibition explores the Spanish visionary artist-designer’s unique take of a ‘circus fantasy.’ Inspired by the age-old Thai traditional form of shadow puppetry Nang Talung, the vibrant, folklore-inspired, three-dimensional art pieces are presented as an immersive ‘theatre’ experience.  

Dates: Until 13 February 2022
Location: Chai Phatthanasilp Building

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‘Co with Color’ by INT-KMITL

Under the umbrella of the ‘Co with Creation’ concept, this ‘Co with Color’ polychromatic, geometric structure exudes positive energy in hopes of bringing smiles to people’s faces as an encouragement to overcome the pandemic as a community.

Dates: Until 13 February 2022
Location: Talad Noi Community Museum 

‘Lionheart’ by Theonzen

This oriental lion-centric exhibition reflects how the artist is inspired by the beliefs within the Chinese community regarding how scared animals bring luck. The meticulously-crafted, mixed media lion art pieces exude powerful energy, giving the impression that the works are protected by deities. 

Dates: Until 13 February 2022
Location: Chai Phatthanasilp Building

‘Sundae Kids’ by CentralWorld

CentralWorld has partnered up together with Bangkok-based illustrator Sundae Kids for this must-visit Instagrammable photo landmark. The art illustrates the relationship between a young couple through the use of line drawings and pastel colour palates displayed in the form of a comic essay. 

Dates: Until 30 April 2022
Location: CentralWOrld 

‘New World x Old Town Part 2’ by Urban Ally x Artists

This return of the ‘New World x Old Town’ exhibition is a highlight expo and the most popular program for Bangkok Design Week 2022. Throughout the nine-day period, Banglamphu’s abandoned New World Building is filled with cool, creative art, light, and sound installations. 

Dates: Until 13 February 2022
Location: New World Department Store

‘SIT/VID/ME’ by AP Thailand

For red, reflective decor, head over to this spatial exhibition which also serves as a community space. The bold, arched structures comprise of numerous identical annulus mirrors, leading to a reflective illusion. 

Dates: Until 13 February 2022
Location: Grand Postal Building

The post Bangkok Design Week 2022: The coolest spots to check out appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: NFTs are everywhere. Here are seven contemporary Asian artists making waves with their unique, creative NFTs.

The craze of non-fungible tokens or NFTs has been on the rise over the last one year. Several artists, celebrities, sportspersons and fashion houses have jumped on the NFT bandwagon and proved that blockchain-based technology can serve as a lucrative investment to maximise the sale of digital assets.

NFTs are digital assets, including music, videos, art, yachts and even land. Among these, the prospect of digital art being traded in the form of NFTs has caught the fancy of many visual artists and other major names.

Artists across the globe are turning to the metaverse to showcase their works in the form of digital assets. This is largely because digital art is considered to be of high value for its uniqueness and rarity. Additionally, owing to the trend that began ever since digital artist Beeple sold his piece for US$69 million, these NFTs are helping artists grow both inside and outside the digital realm.

Talking about the renowned artworks, Asian artists who have already created a space for themselves in the real world of animation, filming, photography, design and much more, have brought their own uniqueness into the digital space.

From unique pixelated GIFs and lego-like animated videos that evoke some of the deepest emotions to NFT magazine covers, these Asian artists will capture your imagination like none other with their creations.

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7 top Asian artists and their NFTs

Curry Sieong Tian

 

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Originally from China, she is aspiring to blend the East and the West through mediums of art and film. What keeps her relevant in such evolving times in the art space is her endeavour to innovate as a visual artist, which goes beyond 3D motion graphic and alternative storytelling styles.

Currently, the artist has three of her fantastic works on SuperRare. These are Sunyata – The Originator, Illuminate the Void and Supreme Pole-03.

THE IMITATION STONE 01-The Impurity of the Body, which is described as a “fake Chinese antique” digital series by the artist, depicts the “irony of contemporary optical theatre” and was sold for USD 22,747 (6.8 Ether; approx HKD 177241.21) in August 2021.

Takahiro Suganuma

With honourable mentions and awards in his kitty, Suganuma uses calm colours and soft organically flowing lines in his digital artworks that evoke a sense of ease.

The Tokyo-based illustrator and artist’s works can be identified in advertising and publications, such as The World Today, Royal College of Physicians and The Architectural Review.

Joining the trend of turning artworks into NFTs, he features his works on Makersplace. Some of his creations include Wait for a Hundred Years, Rainstorm, Green Man and Circulation.

Suganuma’s Flock of Sheep, which was inspired by acclaimed Japanese writer Haruki Murakami’s Adventures of a Sheep, was purchased at USD 650 (approx HKD 5064.70).

Victor Wong

 

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Creator of the first artificial intelligence (AI) ink artwork in the world, Victor Wong is a well-known name among contemporary artists as well as those who are drawn to NFT artworks. While creating Escapism 001 in 2019, Wong was assisted by the first-ever AI ink artist named Gemini.

Wong is the propagator of the TECH-iNK era, which began at the INK NOW Taipei Art Expo the same year. It was here that the artist revealed Escapism 001 to the expo’s visitors.

The Hong Kong-based artist showcases his NFT artworks and collaborations on the marketplace called Refinable where one can buy them using Ethereum. Mahjong – The Dragons, Album of “Stormy Water ? So What ?” and Bench Over Troubled Water are some of his artworks that are currently on sale.

Among Wong’s key private collectors are HSBC and Samsung.

Abdul Hafiz Abdul Rahman

 

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Known as graffiti artist Katun, Abdul Hafiz Abdul Rahman recently made headlines when he sold two of his NFT collections for 127.6 ETH, which amounts to about RM 1.6 million (approx HKD 2,966,488), within 24 hours.

While Mystical Fruits is about “waiting for the fruits of our labour to blossom into something spectacular, sweet and rewarding, a mirror of us evolving into something extraordinary,” Apes Stand Strong — sold within 30 minutes — is about standing united in a volatile world.

Al Jazeera quoted Katun in a 2021 report as saying: “It’s very clear to see that, if done properly, the money gained can truly make a difference for any Southeast Asian artist, as crypto is growing exponentially on a daily basis.”

Munira Hamzah

 

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Going by the pseudonym Mumu The Stan, 32-year-old Munira is another rising Malaysian artist who creates NFT art. She has sold almost 1,800 of them, which include pixel art GIFs, digital paintings and other drawings.
Hamzah is an ardent Linkin Park fan, so much so that the news of lead vocalist Chester Bennington’s death in 2017 devastated her, and she went into depression.

After several therapy sessions and a few years later, she attended a concert by the band being helmed by lead vocalist Mike Shinoda, where she “fell in love with their music all over again,” she told Malay Mail in a 2021 interview.

Hamzah found an instant connection with other Shinoda fans, also known as Stans, and went on to create pixelated art GIFs.

She started her NFT account in May 2021 after being encouraged by Shinoda himself. He even bought one of her NFT art on Zora, an NFT marketplace, for RM 7,400 (approx HKD 12,552).

She is currently working on creating artwork around mental health awareness.

Shavonne Wong

 

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An international fashion photographer based in Singapore, Shavonne Wong launched a virtual modelling agency, named Gen V, with a team of five models. She decided to do so because she is of the view that it will “help to further digitise the fashion industry.”

Wong began as a self-taught photographer about ten years ago and went on to work with several clients such as Asia’s Next Top Model, Sephora, and HBO. She is also one of the established artists with her work published in Vogue Germany, Marie Claire Lower Gulf and Cleo Malaysia.

Stepping into the NFT arena, the artist trades on OpenSea and SuperRare, among other NFT platforms. Currently, I Am (Not) Zen is on sale, while her earlier works include The Hug, Uplift, Glow and Suspense.

Wong’s website describes her NFT artworks as “virtual models that juxtapose realism and surrealism together, placing the virtual models in scenes that cannot be done in real life.”

Collaborating with digital fashion house The Fabricant, she created an NFT cover — The RenaiXance Rising — for Vogue Singapore’s September issue as part of the magazine’s global theme, New Beginnings.

The magazine’s Instagram post from November 2021 said the cover “explores the creative renaissance born out of digital innovation with an issue dedicated to NFTs.”

Shin Oh

 

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Shin Oh is a Malaysian Volumetric Pixel (Voxel) artist. The unique and modern aesthetics in her digital artwork bring forth empathy as a strong human experience.

Her NFT creations can be identified by their single lego-like rooms created on plain backgrounds, as well as short videos themed on melancholic emotions of loneliness, isolation, solitude and emptiness. While some of her works depict work-life imbalance and scenes from a hospital during the pandemic, others include characters reminiscing memories of lost love and nostalgia.

Among Oh’s artworks up for sale are A Bowl of Comfort and Childhood Happiness.

Through her thoughtful depiction of emotions and subtle animation, Oh hopes to inspire people to prioritise self-love while tending to others when they see her work.

(Main and Featured Images Credit: Shin Oh/Makersplace)

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Singapore. 

The post 7 contemporary Asian artists and their creative, unique NFTs appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

Welcome to our monthly column where we feature the most interesting, exciting art exhibitions happening around town. Show some love to local creatives and go on a spraycation at these art exhibitions in Bangkok this February 2022.

Bangkok is brimming with creativity. The buzzing metropolis has witnessed exponential growth in the art scene in the last few years or so. Whether it is art galleries, talented artists, or art connoisseurs – the capital city has observed an escalated interest in all aspects. Consequently, Bangkok is now home to a plethora of cool art shows. Be in the know of what’s hot and happening in the art scene with this monthly column of ours. Here are 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this February 2022. 

[Featured image credit: ‘The Bee Hive Divas of Bangkok 1968’ by Bill Bensley; Hero image credit: Bill Bensley via River City]

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9 talented Thai female artists to follow on Instagram

‘Love-Camp-Explore-Dreams’ by Bill Bensley

You may know him as the renowned creative behind the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Shinta Mani Wild, the upcoming Intercontinental Khao Yai National Park, or other stunning properties designed by the BENSLEY atelier. Now, Bangkok-based architect and interior designer Bill Bensley adds to his creative portfolio with his first-ever art exhibition that narrates his story in four chapters – love, camp, explore, dreams. This assemblage of art pieces fully imbues Bill Bensley’s personal motto, “the odder the better.”

Art gallery: River City Bangkok
Date: Until 28 February 2022

‘P(Control) = 1’ by Wisit Techasirikosol

Derived from the mathematical probability formula that calculates the likelihood of the occurrence of an event, this exhibition explores the concept of free will — or lack thereof. More specifically, the exhibition invites visitors to question whether humans were born with free will or whether there are invisible elements that control us and our decisions. This question is posed and explored via geometric abstract artworks inspired by several components including capitalism, traditions, and the environment. 

Art gallery: River City Bangkok
Dates: 10 February 2022 – 24 April 2022 

‘Still Life – Contemplating Quietude’ by Christian Fielitz and Philipp Christop Hass

For an exhibition that highlights figures and cities, ‘Still Life’ may seem like a misleading title. However, in this exhibition, the artists aim to explore the notions of a quiet life. Think of the late afternoon light falling on a quiet soi; think of a nearly empty highway. A beautiful exhibition that also has a double-fold meaning: stillness can also refer to the painting process itself. Pause, slow down, and reflect, and take part in your own moment of still life at this exhibition.

Art gallery: Sathorn 11 Art Space
Dates: Until 12 February 2022

‘BACC 12 Exhibition’ by Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

For a one-stop inspiration destination, head over to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. Established 12 years ago, this exhibition looks back at the centre’s development throughout the years, and pays homage to individuals that have contributed to the centre’s art and cultural scene. Take a walk down memory lane with the numerous artworks by numerous artists created throughout the 12-year period. 

Art gallery: Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre
Dates: Until 20 February 2022 

‘Variety Surreal: Fashion Interpreted onto Canvas’ by Tanya Tansaringkan

The debut solo exhibition by fashion designer Tanya Tansaringkan, ‘Variety Surreal’ aims to bring together fashion, creativity, and surrealism. Using a contrast between people and their relationships with objects or animals, the exhibition is sure to ignite your imagination and leave all logic behind. What is real and what is myth? The possibilities are endless, and very fashionable.

Art gallery: River City Bangkok
Dates: Until 20 February 2022

‘Beauty, Now or Later’ by Kanachai Bencharongkul

‘Beauty, Now or Later’ marks the latest show at the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok’s The ART Space by MOCA. This group exhibition curated by Kanachai Bencharongkul showcases the work of three young Thai artists that explore the correlations between beauty and time, each artist bringing a unique perspective to the table. The three artists featured are: Chayanin Kwangkaew, Jiranan Julrabot, and Parada Wiratsawee. 

Art gallery: The ART Space by MOCA BANGKOK
Dates: Until 14 February 2022 

‘Oblivion’ by Arin Rungjang

‘Oblivion’ by Arin Rungjang features site-specific works by bringing together multidisciplinary techniques including a video, an installation, and paintings. In this solo exhibition, the artist deploys the radical subjective, deliberates the nothingness, and sublimates the narratives. ‘Oblivion’ invites viewers to enter the artist’s small-deal-in-big-details sovereign.

Art gallery: Nova Contemporary
Dates: Until 5 February 2022 

‘German Traces in Bangkok, Thai Traces in Berlin’ by Ralf Tooten and Wolfgang Bellwinkel

To commemorate the 160 years of Thai-German relations, the German Embassy together with the Goethe Institute Thailand are inviting viewers to explore the connections between Thailand and Germany. The photo exhibition highlights the interconnectedness of Thailand and Berlin, as well as the stories that link them. An interesting take on a longstanding friendship.

Art gallery: River City Bangkok
Dates: Until 31 March 2022

The post Spraycation: 8 art exhibitions to check out in Bangkok this February 2022 appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

NFTs are more or less everywhere. Seriously, everywhere. Here is a look at the ten most expensive NFT artworks ever sold.

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have become the “it” thing, thanks mostly to the Beeple artwork that sold for USD 69.3 million in 2021. In fact, some of the most expensive NFT artworks are by Beeple or by a company known as Larva Labs, an early entrant in this world.

NFT artworks share some attributes with physical artworks in terms of creativity and aesthetics. However, the key difference is that being NFTs, they are simply a code — digital art that exists only on the internet.

Some of these are creatively futuristic and take the artists to record major feats. For example, the REPLICATOR by Canadian artist Mad Dog Jones, whose real name is Michah Dowbak, replicates itself and produces a new NFT every 28 days.

According to its seller — art auction house Phillips — it is an “NFT experience comprising seven unique generations of artworks.” The work sold for USD 4.1 million in April 2021, making Mad Dog Jones the most expensive living Canadian artist.

Yet the prices of NFT sales of artworks have skyrocketed, proving that the market of expensive NFT art has just started to flourish and still leaving room to expect a lot in the coming years.

(Main image: Pak/@muratpak/Twitter; (Featured image: SuperRare)

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The most expensive NFTs ever sold

The Merge: USD 91.8 million

The Merge is a unique digital artwork in the world of NFTs because, instead of being a single piece of work, The Merge is, what can be called, fragmented art.

Created by the renowned artist who goes by the pseudonym Pak, The Merge was sold on NFT marketplace Nifty Gateway between 2 and 4 December 2021. It fetched a record sum of USD 91.8 million — the most expensive NFT ever sold that is an artwork.

Instead of a single owner, The Merge is held by 28,983 collectors. This is because the artwork was sold in units known as ‘mass’. Thus, the collectors together bought a total of 266,445 masses by the time the sale ended on 4 December.

Each ‘mass’ cost USD 575 when the sale began. The price of the tokens went up by USD 25 every six hours.   

Everydays – The First 5000 Days: USD 69.3 million

Acclaimed digital artist Mike Winklemann, better known as Beeple, created a record when his single piece artwork titled Everydays – The First 5000 Days sold for USD 69.3 million at a Christie’s auction on 11 March 2021. Therefore, it is the most expensive NFT sale recorded for an artwork by Beeple.

The artwork is so named because it is a collage of 5,000 individual images made one per day over more than thirteen years from 2007 to 2020 by Beeple.

It was the first purely digital NFT-based artwork offered by a major auction house. Following the sale, Christie’s said Beeple now ranked among the “top three most valuable living artists.”

Its buyer, MetaKovan, later revealed as crypto investor Vignesh Sundaresan, called it “a steal” while talking to The New York Times.

The costliest single-piece NFT artwork, Everydays – The First 5000 Days, is credited by many as the sale that started the NFT boom through 2021. It also catapulted Beeple and his works into an even bigger league, with collaborations with Nike and Katy Perry.

Human One: USD 28.9 million

On 9 November 2021, Beeple had his second-most successful NFT artwork sale. At an auction hosted by Christie’s, the American artist’s creation, Human One, went under the hammer for USD 28.9 million. The buyer was Swiss entrepreneur and venture capitalist Ryan Zurrer.

Human One is remarkably different from Everydays: The First 5,000 Days — the former is a hybrid digital and physical artwork, whereas the latter does not physically exist.

Beeple created a futuristic human-like sculpture, which was seven feet tall and appears to be perpetually walking across ever-changing landscapes. The 3D movement is presented through four video screens of 16K resolution, which come together to form a 4×4-feet box.

According to Christie’s, the kinetic video sculpture came with dual media servers and had a polished aluminium metal, mahogany wood frame.

Speaking to Christie’s head of digital sales Noah Davis, Beeple said, “We had a bunch of TVs on rollers in our studio and were rolling them around in different shapes and patterns. Then I was like: ‘We should roll them into a little box unit.’…We immediately realised that this configuration of screens was a powerful canvas — anything we put on it looked awesome.”

Human One was sold with a corresponding dynamic NFT, which was minted on 28 October 2021. The unique feature of the work is that Beeple will continue to have remote access and creative control over it. This means that the artist can change the creative elements, such as the landscape, as long as he is alive.

“The Physical Element is designed to continuously display the Artwork. Beeple will maintain remote access to the Physical Element to ensure proper functionality and/or enhance the displayed Artwork. Beeple warrants that the Physical Element does not contain any features designed to impair the continuous display of the Artwork,” Christie’s said in its description of Human One.

CryptoPunk #5822: USD 23.7 million

👽 pic.twitter.com/lQg6DzSttr

— Deepak.eth ⛓ (@dt_chain) February 12, 2022

CryptoPunks have long been one of the most sought-after tokens in the NFT space. One of the earliest NFT projects, CryptoPunks, was launched in 2017. A creation of Larva Labs, the acclaimed studio founded by Canadian developers Matt Hall and John Watkinson.

CryptoPunks is essentially a collection of 10,000 tokens called ‘punks’ by their creators and collectors. Often considered the OG NFT collection, each is a collectible character — much like a trading card. No two ‘punks’ are the same, which makes each CryptoPunk an exclusive item.

In a major sale on 13 February 2022, CryptoPunk #5822 was sold for 8000 ETH, which converts to roughly USD 23.7 million at the time of sale. This makes it the most expensive CryptoPunk sale ever.

The CryptoPunk is part of the Alien series collection and has bluish-green skin with only one attribute — a blue bandana. Its buyer, reportedly, is the CEO of blockchain infrastructure company Chain, Deepak Thapliyal, who posted a tweet showing Punk #5822.

CryptoPunk #7523: USD 11.75 million

On 10 June 2021, CryptoPunk #7523 was sold for USD 11.75 million at a Sotheby’s auction, making it the second-most expensive ‘punk’ of all the collections. #7523 is one of the nine in the Alien series of the collection.

The bluish-green-skinned character wears a knitted cap and earrings, too. It is also the only Alien character and one of the 175 in the collection with a medical mask.

According to Reuters, Sotheby’s revealed the token was bought by Israeli entrepreneur Shalom Meckenzie — the largest shareholder of digital sports company DraftKings.

CryptoPunk #3100: USD 7.58 million

On the same day Beeple created history, a crypto art, known as CryptoPunk #3100, was sold for USD 7.58 million. Like #7523, the #3100 is also one of the nine Alien ‘punks’. It has bluish-green skin and just one other feature — a white-and-blue headband. Only 406 out of 10,000 in the collection wear a headband and only 333 have just one attribute.

At the time of its sale, CryptoPunk #3100 was the highest-priced ‘punk’, beating the record set by #7804 a day before by just a whisker.

It has been in the news for some time because of its listed price. According to Larva Labs, it is currently up for sale for USD 114.54. If realised, it would become the highest-priced NFT in history.

CryptoPunk #7804: USD 7.57 million

The ‘punk’, which looks more like Sherlock Holmes with shades, is another of the nine Aliens among the 10,000. On 10 March 2021, it made news for fetching USD 7.57 million for its seller, Figma CEO Dylan Field, who had dubbed it his “digital Mona Lisa.”

The pipe-smoking character wears small shades and is one of the 254 who wears their cap forward. Unlike #3100, the #7804 is not up for sale.

Right-click and Save As guy: USD 7.09 million

Xcopy is the pseudonym of a London-based crypto artist whose works are one of the most in-demand across marketplaces. According to The Crypto Times, Xcopy, who is known for his dystopian- and death-themed works, has sold over 1,900 artworks.

The Right-click and Save As guy is the name of an NFT artwork created by the artist as a joke on those who think that NFTs are worthless because they can simply be right-clicked and downloaded.

The artwork shows a character wearing large shades and a hoodie. Its red-tinted lips are constantly moving, as if mumbling something.

Right-click and Save As guy was sold on the SuperRare marketplace for USD 7.08 million in early December 2021. It was bought by the user known online as ‘Cozomo de Medici’, who has a vast storehouse of NFT digital collectibles.

Some speculate that ‘Cozomo de Medici’ is the alias of rapper Snoop Dogg. Even though the American celebrity admitted that he is the man behind the identity, it has not been independently verified.

Ringers 109: USD 6.9 million

Ringers #109 is an artwork by Art Blocks, which is a project that creates loops around pegs using an algorithm. The artwork can be a 3D image, an interactive feature, or a static picture.

Ringers #109 is a static image of a series of loops around multiple pegs. The dominant colour is black on a white background. The balanced wrap orientation, the loop and the white background are three very rare attributes in Art Blocks’ creations. The rarest is, however, a red peg — the colour is present in just 0.3 percent of its tokens.

The NFT was sold for USD 6.9 million in October 2021 — a record price for Art Blocks. It is not clear who bought the NFT but according to The Crypto Times, the seller was AKIRA, co-founder of NarcissusGLRY, who revealed the sale on Twitter.

According to AKIRA, the NFT was bought by them for USD 550 in March 2021.

A Coin for the Ferryman: USD 6.01 million

One of the earliest works by Xcopy, A Coin for the Ferryman was sold on SuperRare for USD 6.01 million on 4 November 2021.

The artwork is a GIF, showing constantly changing expressions on a person’s face. It was minted by Xcopy on 20 April 2018.

A Coin for the Ferryman – 1/1
New #crypto #art release over @SuperRare_co #bitcoin #banker #ETH pic.twitter.com/dLQgervQOw

— XCOPY (@XCOPYART) April 20, 2018

At the time, it was bought by a user named @0xclipse for USD 139. In 2019, it was transferred to a user named @electricmeat who eventually sold it on SuperRare to the current owner @jpeggy.

Ocean Front: USD 6 million

Beeple’s Ocean Front is much more than one of the most expensive NFT artworks. It is a telling reminder to the world of the impending disaster that unchecked climate change is set to bring.

The artwork is part of Beeple’s “Everydays” series. It shows a series of trailers and containers stacked upon each other on a platform in the middle of an ocean. At the top of the dystopian man-made objects is a tree, underneath which mushrooms can be seen growing.

The artwork was bought on 23 March 2021 following intense bidding on Nifty Gateway by Justin Sun, the founder and CEO of the Tron Foundation, for USD 6 million. Beeple himself announced the winner and the winning bid on Twitter.

(1/4)Here let’s enjoy @beeple‘s NFT artwork “OCEAN FRONT” that I successfully won a bid for!

“OCEAN FRONT” expresses Beeple’s concerns on global climate change, a profound message of the need for environmental protection. pic.twitter.com/zGXWyyPgmO

— H.E. Justin Sun (@justinsuntron) March 30, 2021

Following the transaction, Sun tweeted that proceeds from the sale to Open Earth Foundation — an NGO working to tackle climate change.

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur. 

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If you’ve ever wanted to have your words displayed across the big screens at London’s Piccadilly Circus, here’s your chance. Ai Weiwei’s latest art installation wants your personal involvement.

Each artist has their own particular existential question.William Shakespeare wondered if it was better to “be or not to be;” Ai Weiwei is wondering about our future. The Chinese contemporary art star is taking part in an art installation in London whose aim is to reflect on the post-covid world.

To discover the art installation “WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE,” art lovers will have to go to the heart of London — to Piccadilly Circus. The project was launched in early October by CIRCA, a new platform presenting daily digital art, both online and in a public space in the English capital. Many international artists have been invited to participate, including Ai Weiwei, Marina Abramović, Nikita Gale, Indy Johar and Tom Whyman.

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To make the installation even more interactive, CIRCA is inviting the public to share their own answers to the question raised by “WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE.”  They can submit their answers on the CIRCA website until October 30 in the hopes of winning an unpublished work by Ai Weiwei. The lucky winner will also have their answer displayed on giant screens in the middle of Piccadilly Circus.

The artist has created a special edition of 51 prints entitled “#CIRCAECONOMY,” all signed by him. While one of Ai Weiwei’s prints will be given away as part of the launch of “WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE,” the others will be put on sale on CIRCA in the coming weeks. Their selling price: 5,000 pounds (about 6825 US dollars). Proceeds from the sale will help support CIRCA’s free public art program in London, Tokyo, Seoul, Milan and New York, while strengthening the #CIRCAECONOMY initiative.

Giving new impetus to public art

“”We’re starting to test the limits for how art in the public realm can not just speak to regular people, and intervene in public debate, but listen and respond, providing new creative impetus to powerful and positive ideas,” outlined Josef O’Connor, artistic director of CIRCA.

The covid-19 pandemic has intensified the debate about the importance of public art in the face of prolonged closures of museums and other cultural venues. The City of Toronto decided to devote 4.5 million Canadian dollars (about 3.6 million US dollars) to a 10-year public art program. Under the ArtworxTO project, more than 350 new murals, installations, exhibitions, art events and dance works are expected to be created by 2022.

An essential investment, according to Toronto Mayor John Tory. “As we look to rebuild our city post-pandemic and bring about a renewed sense of hope and vibrancy, the arts and culture sector will play a big role in our success,” he said in September, when the launch of ArtworxTO was announced.

This article is published via AFP Relaxnews.

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Using their brushstroke, many Thai illustrators are stepping into the spotlight of a world stage.

Whilst as Bangkokians, we know a lot of these artists through local exhibitions, few of us realise that many of our city favourites have also received international acclaim and fame. Many Thai illustrators have made their mark globally, designing notable works that have different inspirations, concepts, and techniques. From the fashion industry over to electronics, here are the Thai illustrators that have collaborated with international brands. 

[Hero Image Credit: Sundae Kids via Facebook]

1. Phannapast ‘Yoon’ Taychamaythakool for Gucci

Yoon Phannapast is widely known as one of the most talented illustrators in Thailand. With a unique style in her work using animal characters and floral designs, she has caught the attention of brands abroad. Whilst she formerly worked as content director at Thai fashion brand Kloset, Gucci’s creative director Alessandro Michele also got her attention. She has collaborated on many Gucci projects, such as Gucci Tian, Gucci Bloom Acqua Di Fiori, Gucci DIY sneakers, and the Gucci Art Wall. Meanwhile, she also designed Stranger In My Garden, the photo backdrop for Instagram’s office in New York City.

2. Sundae Kids for A-Gent Tokyo and Casetify

Sundae Kids comprises of a Thai illustrator couple that has more than 2 million followers on Facebook. Kavin Thienvutichi serves as an art director of Sundae Kids, and Poysian Pratchaya, his girlfriend, serves as the illustrator. Sundae Lids focuses on relationship stories through webcomics. Their works have reach globally. They also collaborated with A-Gent Tokyo and Casetify for special collections.

3. Bloody Hell Big Head for Twitter and Oppo

Bangkok-based illustrator Tanawat Sakdawisarak is also known as Bloody Hell Big Head. He uses geometric forms to create peculiar characters. Many Thai brands have been his clients, such as Siam Discovery, Drop by Dough, Pomelo, and The Commons. His works also made waves internationally. He has collaborated with many global brands, such as Twitter for the Mac Store and Oppo Reno.

4. Jirayu Koo for Nike

Jirayu Koo always tells her stories through chubby characters, or Glom-Glom, with positive visuals, bold shapes, and fun colour combinations. Featuring a vivid style, she hopes that her work will bring joy to people. Her Glom-Glom characters have brought many big successes to her as well. She has caught the attention of many global brands, most notably Nike, for the Nike by You project, where she created the designs under the concept of a Bangkok Jam.

5. Jackkrit Anantakul for Facebook

Jackkrit Anantakul is well-known for his colourful and humorous illustrations. He is one of the Thai illustrators who attracts clients worldwide, ranging from Asia to Europe and America. Jackkrit Anantakul has worked with brands such as Facebook, Google, and Beams shop in Japan.

The post 5 Thai illustrators that have collaborated with global brands appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

We absolutely love this.

Danish toy brick maker Lego unveiled a new set of rainbow-coloured figurines on Thursday to celebrate the diversity of its fans and the LGBTQI+ community.

“Everyone is Awesome”

The “Everyone is Awesome” set features 11 monochrome mini figures, each with its own individual hairstyle and rainbow colour.

“I wanted to create a model that symbolises inclusivity and celebrates everyone, no matter how they identify or who they love,” set designer Matthew Ashton said in a statement.

He said the fact that he belongs to the LGBTQI+ community had encouraged him to create the new Lego bricks.

A statement about love and inclusivity

“I knew I needed to step up to the plate and make a real statement about love and inclusivity, and generally spread some Lego love to everybody who needs it,” Ashton said.

“Kids are so much more accepting of each other and everybody else’s differences and I think that’s one of the things we can all learn from kids, is just go out there, have fun, be open to everybody and the world would be a much more happier, inclusive and living place,” he added.

The new 346-piece set will go on sale June 1 to coincide with Pride Month, which is dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQI+ communities around the world.

This article is published via AFP Relaxnews.

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