Bangkok Art Biennale 2024: Nurturing Gaia

The Bangkok Art Biennale (BAB) is set to captivate audiences with its 2024 edition, "Nurture Gaia." This city-wide event will showcase the works of 76 renowned international artists, exploring themes of ecology, feminism, and the interconnectedness of humanity and the planet. The Biennale will run from October 24, 2024, to February 25, 2025.

Inspired by the concept of Mother Earth as a nurturer and giver of life, Nurture Gaia delves into contemporary themes such as anthropology, collectivism, ecology, feminism, and the politics of time and place. The Biennale aims to raise awareness about urgent global issues and foster a deeper connection between humanity and the planet. The Biennale will take place across 11 iconic locations, including heritage sites like the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and the Temple of Dawn, as well as National Museum, newly-opened One Bangkok and more. 

“Art helps educate, inspire, and heal,” said Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, former Minister of Tourism and Sports. She expressed her emotional gratitude, stating that her dream has come true with the BAB 2024, where international artists’ works will be displayed for the public to enjoy.

Speaking at the press conference, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt emphasized the Biennale’s positive impact on the community. “Art is an important indicator of a city's quality,” he said, adding that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is committed to helping establish Bangkok as a major player in the international art scene.

From October 24, 2024, to February 25, 2025, visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and performances. The Biennale will feature thought-provoking pieces by acclaimed artists like Anish Kapoor, Tony Cragg, Mella Jaarsma, and Pokchat Worasub.

Programme highlights include a variety of artworks, such as Mella Jaarsma’s (Netherlands/Indonesia) performance and costume installation, which explores the tension between contemporary art and tradition, and the urgency of preserving disappearing knowledge. Pokchat Worasub (Thailand) will examine ethnic identity and marginality through photography, while Agi Haines (UK) presents a thought-provoking exploration of potential human adaptations to emerging challenges, delving into the implications of body modifications. Other notable works include a large-scale installation by Adel Abdessemed (Algeria/France), exploring the interconnectedness of mother and child, and Mutmee Pimdao Panichsamai's (Thailand) video work that delves into the human mind and society through movement, lighting, and theatricality. Gimhongsok (South Korea) will showcase new sculptural installations addressing labor conditions.

Additionally, major sculptures by renowned artists Anish Kapoor (UK) and Tony Cragg (UK) will be displayed at One Bangkok as part of the 2024 Biennale, where they will remain permanently

Led by Prof. Dr. Apinan Poshyananda, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the Bangkok Art Biennale (BAB), the curatorial team for this edition includes Pojai Akratanakul, curatorial section lead; Dr. Brian Curtin, art critic and educator; Akiko Miki, International Artistic Director of Benesse Art Site Naoshima and curator; and Dr. Paramaporn Sirikulchayanont, lecturer and former Director of the Art Centre of Silpakorn University, Bangkok.

The Bangkok Art Biennale is a collaborative effort between the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Fine Arts Department, and other public and private sectors. It aims to promote Southeast Asia's vibrant art scene and attract international visitors.
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**Cover Photo: Adel Abdessemed, DIE TAUBENPOST, 2021. ©Adel Abdessemed, Paris ADAGP

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