Mark your calendars for the biennial international art exhibition which brings together artworks of international and local artists to various venues across Bangkok as it returns for the fourth time from October 24 2024 – February 25 2025.
This year, the Bangkok Art Biennale presents the theme Nurture Gaia which is inspired by the Greek goddess Gaia, who brings life and nourishment. In light of recent challenges such as climate change, pandemics, war and environmental destruction, the event shines a light on humanity’s disregard for the goddess. It explores the relationship between nature and nurture, the complexities of femininity and feminine values and offers a contemplative engagement with ecopolitics, animism and the supernatural.
The exhibition curated by Dr Apinan Poshyanond will be spread across 11 venues in Bangkok, ranging from temples, museums, galleries and retail spaces. Notable locations include Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Wat Prayoon, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, Central World, Museum Siam and the National Gallery of Thailand.
Featured are 76 artists from Thailand and abroad. Amongst the Thai artists are Prasong Luemuang who explores the human body and emotions through his meditative practice and Sophirat Muangkum who draws inspiration from personal stories, nature and subcultures.
Art lovers can look forward to international works by artists like Louise Bourgeois, a French artist known for her large-scale sculptures and installations and George Bolster, an Irish artist recognised for his blend of art, science and philosophy.
In addition to appreciating works of art, the festival offers a variety of public programs such as artist talks, hands-on workshops and guided tours. A pre-event was held last week with a talk by world-renowned British sculptor Sir Tony Cragg, whose sculpture is on display at One Bangkok.
Big cities around the world host major art festivals from the Venice Biennale to Frieze New York and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The Bangkok Art Biennale showcases Bangkok as not just a tourist destination but also Southeast Asia’s leading hub for contemporary art.