Tang Contemporary Art is pleased to announce the exhibition, Intersection of Existence, in the Bangkok Space, running from 20 April - 11 June, 2024.  Curated by Mai Wongsawasdi, the exhibition presents the works of eight important Thai contemporary artists: Gongkan, Kamin Lerchaiprasert, Kitti Narod, Navin Rawanchaikul, Pannaphan Yodmanee, Sakarin Krue-On, Sriwan Janehuttakarnkit, and Suntur.

 

This group exhibition explores the artistic creations of eight artists, many of whom Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok has worked with since its establishment in 1997; each artist influenced by their individual perspectives and life encounters since, will present a selection of historical and new creations in this show. The artistic expressions of each artist are the result of their diverse upbringings, backgrounds, and influences. However, regardless of the variations in visual aesthetics, conceptual approach, and artistic medium, all artworks exhibited shared themes centered around the human experience and existence. Consequently, these diverse pieces find ways to establish connections with one another.

 

Certain inevitabilities mark our shared journeys. According to the first noble truth of Buddhism, the cycles of birth, aging, sickness, and death, which are inevitable experiences of life. Alongside these significant life experiences, we come across a variety of emotions—such as love, joy, pain, anger, and contentment—together, these influence and define our sense of self. By engaging in these experiences, we acquire knowledge, we develop, and we ultimately shape and solidify our identities. Our journey is defined by the process, the interpersonal interactions and self-reflection, as we navigate the complexities of existence, seeking meaning amidst life's uncertainties.

 

In Kamin Lertchaiprasert's pair of paintings from his series and project 'Pure Perception?', we encounter a profound reflection of essential human experiences, which resonate with all of us during the pandemic. Each painting captures the essence of being present and recognizes the ordinary or mundane aspects of daily life - one painting depicting the artist's backyard, while the other portraying a video clip found on the YouTube platform. The linen canvases are not fully coated with paint in order to accurately display the original colors of the painting, as intended by the series.

 

The ten sculptures are part of the “…….." (Emptiness) series by Kamin Lertchaiprasert. Upon careful examination, it becomes apparent that each sculpture embodies characteristics that imply 'emptiness' and 'nothingness', including the void itself. Lertchaiprasert's perception of emptiness represents the fundamental essence of life.

 

In the work of Sriwan Janehuttakarnkit, which pays homage to Edouard Manet's monumental, "Luncheon on the Grass," she employs the symbolism of skeletons to express the idea of life’s uncertainties and unforeseeable future. It is visible that all four skeleton figures are depicted as enjoying the simple pleasures of life.  Set in a scene inspired by the artist’s own backyard, the four figures are seen gathering to share food and spending quality time with loved ones - a vital part of Thai culture and values - while another figure in the background is collecting lotus flowers, also a common yet reminiscent scene when visiting Thai local parks. The painting reflects current events we live and observe. Nevertheless, the future of what is to come remains uncertain and unpredictable.

 

Similarly, Pannaphan Yodmanee's works also employ skeletons and human figures to contrast the cycles of life and death. However, she integrates the ideologies and beliefs of various cultures, with a particular emphasis on the perception of women within these cultures. She incorporates imagery of lotus flowers and the use of the color blue to create a sense of familiarity with Asian cultures. With technical finesse, the artist creates the appearance of a concrete temple wall on the canvas, representing the inherent unpredictability and constant changeability in our lives.

 

Sakarin Krue-On's artworks explore the subject matter of faith and belief. On display is an artwork, recreated from his original work from the year 2000, which propelled him to international recognition.  The striking color of red is used as a representation of heaven, or Nirvana, as believed in Buddhism. We are encouraged to carefully analyze the paintings in order to perceive the form of the red temple meticulously embedded within this bold color, prompting our reflection on the nature of reality and existence.

 

Additionally, Krue-On drew inspiration from this painting and the original exhibition for his new work created in 2024, titled Temple, which utilizes a connected screen system to transport the audience back to his original installation and exhibition back in the year 2000.

 

Navin Rawanchaikul's works consist of three paintings that depict the basic and profound concept of life: the journey. He fully embraces the fundamental nature of existence, engaging with others, establishing meaningful relationships, and treasuring moments that endure. Navin's three paintings, while sharing the theme of the 'journey,' each have their own unique narrative, which is subtly suggested in their titles. Collectively, they embody the universal human experiences that deeply resonate with each and every one of us.

 

Relationships are a fundamental aspect of human existence. How would emotions be perceived in the absence of any form of connection? Suntur's new painting portrays a melancholic yet serene atmosphere, with two human figures positioned at a distance, facing each other. Suntur's painting effectively portrays human emotions, which can be subject to various interpretations, along with the intimate relationship between the two individuals.

 

Similarly in Gongkan's artwork, the artist explores the dynamics of relationships, whether they are between individuals or within one's own self. It provides us with an intimate understanding of the dynamics within the relationship. The painting's symbolism, featuring birds imprisoned in an open cage against the backdrop of the sky, conveys the concepts of liberation and new beginnings.

 

Kitti Narod, an expert in embedding layers of meaning and symbolism underneath his colorful and vibrant works, also emphasizes the relationship in its most basic and ordinary form in everyday life. In his two new paintings, the artist intentionally portrays the relationship between cats and personal space while also depicting a sense of security and contentment in his daily routine. The cat sculptures represent a contrasting range of emotions, from feelings of love and safety to ones of threat and insecurity, which reflect the everyday experiences of life. 

 

Intersection of Existence demonstrates the interconnection of artworks, emphasizing the points where individual narratives and universal truths meet to stimulate reflection on our shared experience of existence. The exhibition provides viewers with the opportunity to gain an awareness and an understanding of the lives of all eight artists from different backgrounds and generations through their unique perspectives, introspective reflections, emotions, and even their daily lives.

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