Nostalgia for Unity: A Journey into the Void at Bangkok Kunsthalle

The bustling heart of Yaowarat now pulses with a new beacon of artistic innovation: Bangkok Kunsthalle. Officially opened in early 2024, this contemporary art space, founded by visionary Khun Marisa Chearavanont, promises to be a haven for art enthusiasts and cultural connoisseurs. Currently, it hosts the groundbreaking exhibition "Nostalgia for Unity," curated by the renowned Thai artist Korakrit Arunanondchai.

Running from May 31 to October 31, 2024, "Nostalgia for Unity" offers visitors an immersive artistic experience that delves into the unseen and the intangible. The exhibition, co-curated by Stefano Rabolli Pansera, Mark Chearavanont, and Gemmica Sinthawalai, aims to captivate and inspire audiences through Korakrit's exploration of negative space.

Korakrit Arunanondchai: An Artistic Journey

Korakrit Arunanondchai, celebrated for his participation in the 2023 Thailand Biennale in Chiang Rai, continues to challenge perceptions with his unique blend of beliefs, religion, and art. His diverse artistic repertoire, which spans painting, animation, photography, and performance art, has garnered international acclaim.

In "Nostalgia for Unity," Korakrit constructs a narrative around negative space, inviting viewers to contemplate absence and the unseen. He envisions this intangible entity as a 'Phoenix,' with the script in his work acting as a barrier between the accepted and the unspoken, connecting different dimensions of time and existence. This exhibition sparks conversations about fragility and existence, exploring themes of decay, rebirth, and the interplay between individual enlightenment and shared spirituality.

A Tribute to Thai Watthana Panich Building

Korakrit's inspiration stems from the Thai Watthana Panich building, which caught fire in 2001. He envisions this building as a decaying body, with his art serving as a new heart. The exhibition features an installation reminiscent of a stage, with mantras etched into the floor, light filtered through stained glass, and smog creating a surreal atmosphere. This homage to the Thai Watthana Panich building stands as a testament to resilience and renewal.

Visiting Bangkok Kunsthalle

"Nostalgia for Unity" is open for free viewing at Bangkok Kunsthalle from May 31 to October 31, 2024, between 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). Visitors can follow the latest updates on Facebook and Instagram. The venue is accessible via the MRT Hua Lamphong Station, Exit 2, with parking available at Hua Lamphong Train Station and Gorilla Parking.

PHOTO BY Samatcha Apaisuwan