Bangkok’s art scene is always full of surprises and this year it’s about to get even more exciting as the iconic Kaws: Holiday exhibition makes its way to the City of Angels. After its recent appearance at the Prambanan Temple complex in Indonesia, Kaws is teaming up with longtime collaborator AllRightsReserved, along with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Central Embassy to bring this large-scale sculpture to the heart of the city.
Brought to life by American artist Brian Donnelly, better known as Kaws, the exhibition features a colossal 40-meter-long inflatable of his iconic character, COMPANION, lounging in a relaxed pose. Since its debut in 2018, the project has captivated audiences worldwide with appearances in cities such as Seoul, Singapore, Bristol, Melbourne and even outer space. For its Bangkok stop, the artwork will be on display from May 13-25, though the venue remains a mystery.
Kaws' iconic characters are no strangers to Bangkok. Back in 2016, the city welcomed an eight-metre-tall BFF sculpture at Central Embassy, marking its debut in Thailand. The striking figure quickly became a crowd-puller, reflecting Bangkok's ongoing fascination with the artist's playful yet thought-provoking creations.
Reflecting on the arrival of this renowned sculpture, Bangkok Governor Dr. Chadchart Sittipunt stated, ‘Mr. Brian Donnelly's visit to Thailand is a unique opportunity for both the art community and the Thai people. We believe art has the power to enrich the city, inspire individuals and contribute to a thriving society in Bangkok. This aligns with the government's policy to create spaces for creative expression and promote sustainable urban development.’
Avid Kaws collectors will be glad to know that a limited-edition series of Kaws: Holiday merchandise is on the way. What makes this release even more special is its collaboration with local artists. So, while you're viewing this world-renowned artwork, you'll also get to see Thai talents shine. The artist lineup is still under wraps, but it's definitely something to look forward to.