Thai artistry skills and craftsmanship are appreciated and even envied the world over. The attention to detail - from fruit carvings and ice sculptures, to architecture and folk art - is the result of a deep-rooted creativity that seems to be as much part of the Thai psyche as this friendly nation's gentle spirit. As such, the contemporary art scene is thriving too, and Bangkok is a great place to shop for wonderful, affordable art. Many fine galleries showcasing the work of talented artists abound all over the city, and markets are also a good place to keep your eyes peeled for the work of some undiscovered talent.
Sukontip Ostick is the Founding Director of La Lanta Fine Art, a stylish gallery in Silom Road where regular exhibitions are hosted to give emerging Thai and Asian artists a platform to promote their art. The collections include paintings, sculpture and photography. We spoke to her to get an insight of Bangkok's arts scene...
What makes Bangkok such a hub for creativity?
There are many factors that help push the creativity level of Bangkok. Firstly, Bangkok's central location in the region. Many artists use Bangkok as a base to work from, since it's ideal to market their work from to the rest of the world. Secondly, a large number of Thai people have had opportunities to travel the world to broaden their perspectives. The Thai government's vision to push productivity in areas like fashion (BKK Fashion Week), handicrafts and household decorations (BIG and BIH fairs) etc has played a big role too - the overall effort has fuelled the growth of creative talents in different areas. Everything works in congruence.
What is typically the style of art and most-favoured medium that can be found presently?
It is difficult to single out one medium. I would say oil and acrylic on canvas and watercolour on paper are the most common media. However, you will also start to find more and more mixed media and sculpture.
What gives Thai people such a creative edge?
A long history of creating high quality art and crafts, coupled with the younger generation's experimental attitude. In general, Thailand has a relatively young population with a very different outlook in life. They grow up amidst a blooming economy where things happen very fast. They are less resistant to change. They take more risks. Many of them have traveled extensively and are able to incorporate new design concepts with traditional art. I also think Thais generally have a good sense of humour, and that can be very creative at times (look at the Thai advertising industry, for example).
Do you think art is a good investment from a financial point of view?
Yes, definitely - if you know what you're buying. But, like other investments, nothing is risk-free.
Who is your favourite all-time artist, and why?
Akiyama Iwao. He is a living legend of Japanese woodblock printing. His woodblock prints are the simplest form of black ink on thin Japanese paper. His work is whimsical and intimate; mostly about owls, cats, and women. He also writes haiku poems for each of his prints.
Is there an up-and-coming Thai artist whose work we should all be looking out for?
There are quite a few to look out for and I think different people will have a rather different view on this. My list includes Anupong Kachacheewa for his distinctive and surreal paintings, Prapat Jiwarangsan for his one-of-a-kind glass sculptures, and Tinnakorn Kasornsuwan for his rural motif etchings.
Should art make a statement about the person who's buying it?
Should it make a statement? I cannot answer that. But does it make a statement? I think it definitely does. Art represents personal taste.
Is it important for the buyer to know what inspired the artist, or the true meaning of the artist's work?
Yes. Since a work of art can be perceived and interpreted in different ways, I think it is a good idea for buyers to have an opportunity to see the work through the artist's eyes. If one chooses to interpret the art in different ways, it doesn't matter. But, to understand what the artist wants to communicate, that in itself establishes a connection between the buyer with the art.
How does the arts scene in Bangkok compare with that in other large international cities?
The arts scene in Bangkok has improved tremendously over the last three years. There are more venues where people have easier access to appreciate art. However, some international cities have a significantly bigger variety of art, and different platforms for artists at all stages of their careers to expose their art to the public.
When does a splash of paint on a canvas become art?
When the creator says it is art and you are convinced.
Do you think the Thai government is doing enough to nurture young talent?
It is easy to criticise the government for everything under the sun. I think everything should be looked at in perspective. Over the last couple of years, we saw a good attempt by the Ministry of Culture to organise a series of art markets to serve as a platform for young artists to show and sell their work. I believe the national budget comes into play with the progress of art development as well.
Are artists really as temperamental as they appear (to be)?
They hide it well. They are actually much more temperamental!
How big is the overseas demand for the work of local artists?
Potential of the overseas demand for Thai art could be huge. Right now there are only a handful of Thai artists who have gained international recognition. The work of Thai artists need much more exposure to play a role in the global arts scene.
How much of true art is inspiration, and how much is technique?
I would say more than 80% is inspiration. Technique is merely a means to communicate inspiration or theory. For example, the Black Paintings by Frank Stella retained only the colour black, parallel straight lines and right angles to communicate the theory of reduced art to its primary parts. This example is an extreme case, but what makes art interesting is the processes rather than the finished product (idea conception, researching, discussion, etc).
Do you think people buy art for the right reasons, generally?
What is the right reason, anyway? Everyone has their own right reason to buy art. If it feels right, buy it.
Who is the next big artist whose work will be showcased at your gallery, and why did you select this artist?
From December to mid January, La Lanta Fine Art will host a solo sculpture exhibition called 'Wind and Wave' by Chainapa Lepajarn. She presents a metaphor of natural disasters such as tornados and tsunamis - comparing the hardships they bring with the daily struggle experienced by some women. Her artwork is about women's dignity and inner strengths.
Are there any major art events coming up in Bangkok over the next few months?
On November 23, there will be a unique art event at the Sukhothai Hotel called 'A Night of Art at The Sukhothai'. Guests will experience a combination of fine dining and fine arts. The Sukhothai, for the first time in Thailand, will present and eight-course degustation menu with each dish accompanied by a cocktail. The event will showcase more than 30 dazzling paintings by three budding Thai artists. This is a charity event with proceeds used to help one of the artists with his cancer treatment. (For more information, contact 02 344 8888)
Realism or surrealism... Which gets your personal stamp of approval, and why?
For me, surrealism is more live. Every time you look at it you're likely to find some meanings that you didn't discover previously. It is much more than an imitation of nature or representation of an object.
Which famous artist has left the biggest legacy behind, by either shaping 'direction' for other artists to follow, or by being revolutionary in his/her own right?
Marcel Duchamp with his famous series of work 'Ready-Made' in 1915. He took everyday objects such as a typewriter, a perfume bottle, a bicycle wheel and a urinal, and exhibited them in their raw state. These objects are not sculpture, but a presentation of a critical tool used for everyday life. This was an artistic revolution and led to a new era of other big names like Andy Warhol, who came up with the famous Campbell's soup tin and other interesting installations of objects in the 60's. |
