KAWS's Giant COMPANION Lands in Bangkok's Historic Sanam Luang

KAWS:HOLIDAY Arrives in Bangkok, Transforming Sanam Luang into an Art and Lifestyle Destination

Internationally acclaimed artist KAWS, in collaboration with AllRightsReserved and Central Embassy, has brought his celebrated "KAWS:HOLIDAY" exhibition to Bangkok, Thailand. Following successful stops in Indonesia, Shanghai, and Le Brassus, this latest installment dramatically transforms the historic Sanam Luang, Bangkok's significant ceremonial and cultural heart, into a captivating open-air art space.

The centerpiece of "KAWS:HOLIDAY" THAILAND is an impressive 18-meter COMPANION sculpture. This iconic figure is depicted gently cradling the Moon while a smaller COMPANION rests in its lap, symbolizing the vital transfer of knowledge, values, and care across generations, and highlighting the deep connections between the past, present, and future.

Sanam Luang, historically known as Thung Phra Meru (Royal Cremation Ground), holds profound cultural and spiritual importance in Thailand. Rooted in ancient beliefs, it's seen as the universe's center, where celestial and earthly realms meet. KAWS's COMPANION, positioned on the Earth and embracing the Moon, resonates with this cosmic order, underscoring the interconnectedness of all things and the continuous flow of wisdom through time.

Located adjacent to the Grand Palace, the exhibition creates a unique bridge between Thailand’s rich regal heritage and contemporary artistic expression. "KAWS:HOLIDAY" THAILAND offers more than just an art installation; it's an invitation to pause, immerse oneself in the surroundings, and experience a moment of reflection and shared connection. The collaboration with local partner Central Embassy further enriches this experience, weaving in a distinct cultural dimension and strengthening the exhibition's ties with the local community.

Beyond the monumental sculpture, visitors can explore the CENTRAL EMBASSY HOLIDAY PAVILION, thoughtfully designed as a haven for art enthusiasts and lifestyle seekers. Here, you can ease into the day on stylish HOLIDAY CHAIRS, offering a perfect vantage point to contemplate the artwork. The tiered SEATING STADIUM provides panoramic views of Sanam Luang, while the shaded RESTING TENT BY CENTRAL EMBASSY offers a comfortable retreat. These "pause points" seamlessly blend art and lifestyle, offering fresh inspiration at every turn.

Weekend visitors can enjoy HOLIDAY IN THE PARK BY CENTRAL EMBASSY, a vibrant city-center escape from morning until evening. The program includes a variety of workshops, music, and movement sessions. Embrace balance at the THAI WELLNESS & WORKSHOP BY KLAI, featuring Yued Klai (a blend of Thai massage and Ruesi Dat Ton stretching) followed by a bespoke KLAI JAI herbal inhaler class. As the sun sets, the PAVILION LIVE DJ transforms Sanam Luang into an enchanting art-garden party, complete with nostalgic sugar mold candy giveaways.

For health enthusiasts and early risers, WAKE UP LIKE PILATES offers an al-fresco class led by the renowned YPS Pilates collective—making Sanam Luang their inaugural Bangkok location. On May 18th and 25th, 2025, participants can stretch amidst the art, absorbing the restorative energy of nature and the inspiring surroundings. Runners can also participate in HOLIDAY RUN, with two exciting events: Run Now, Fab Later hosting a relaxed 4-kilometer social run on May 17th, focused on fun and camaraderie, and Cruise Control offering a steady-pace 8-kilometer challenge for more serious runners on May 24th, 2025.

To commemorate "KAWS:HOLIDAY" THAILAND, SIWILAI, the official Pop Up Shop & Café Partner, presents limited-edition merchandise collections, including T-shirts, summer shirts, glass mugs, cushions, and iconic Thai herbal lozenges and inhalers. The experience also blends art and lifestyle through exclusive coffee blends and menu items inspired by the installation. The KAWS: HOLIDAY THAILAND Pop Up Shop & Café is located at the SIWILAI Store, Level 2, Central Embassy (open from May 6th to 25th, 2025), and at Sanam Luang (open from May 13th to 25th, 2025). The "KAWS:HOLIDAY" THAILAND merchandise collection is available worldwide via DDT Store (excluding orders from Thailand and the United States).

For a seamless visit, Central Embassy has set up information kiosks on Levels 2 and G, providing comprehensive program details, along with a complimentary electric tuk-tuk shuttle connecting Central Embassy and Sanam Luang.

This extraordinary event has received generous support from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, alongside local partners such as Central The 1 Credit Card, Plan B Media Public Company Limited, and Lighting & Equipment Public Company Limited. Their collaboration has been instrumental in strengthening the connection between art and its audience, adding a unique cultural dimension to this celebration.

A special moment awaits on May 17th, 2025, with a personal appearance by the renowned contemporary artist KAWS at the exhibition's official opening.

"KAWS:HOLIDAY" THAILAND offers a contemporary space for all generations to rediscover the beauty of Sanam Luang through fresh perspectives, embrace the importance of "taking a pause," and step into life with renewed inspiration. The exhibition is open now until May 25th, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, at Sanam Luang, Bangkok. Admission is free.

For the latest updates, follow the official AllRightsReserved and Central Embassy Instagram channels.

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