Main photo: Chiara Camoni, Sister (Farfalla), 2023.//Image Courtesy the Artist and SpazioA, Pistoia
In a world grappling with global challenges, from climate change to economic uncertainty, art offers a much-needed respite. The Bangkok Art Biennale (BAB), titled “Nurture Gaia,” aims to provide just that.
Inspired by the nurturing spirit of Mother Earth, this fourth edition explores vital contemporary themes, such as ecology, feminism, and the political challenges at home and abroad.
By showcasing the power of art to inspire, heal, and unite, the Biennale offers a sanctuary for audiences to escape the chaos and find solace in creativity.
“I’m deeply moved by the Biennale’s title, Nurture Gaia, as I believe our planet is suffering. Phra Mae Thorani, Mother Earth, has endured humanity’s neglect and destruction,” said National Artist Prof. Kanya Charoensupkul, who is participating in the Biennale for the first time. “My work, ‘Whitewash for Mother Earth’, is a visual expression of her agonizing pain and the deep anger she must feel,”
Photo: National Artist Prof. Kanya Charoensupkul with her Whitewash for Mother Earth artwork during the installation.//Photo by Veena Thoopkrajae
Running for four months from October 24, 2024, to February 25, 2025, the fourth edition of the Bangkok Art Biennale (BAB) will showcase the works of 76 leading artists across 11 city-wide venues.
Of these 76 artists, 31 will be exhibiting their work for the first time.
Photo: Bruce Asbestos, Eye of Newt. Bluecoat Gallery (FEB 2022).//©Rob Battersby
The diverse collection includes drawings, paintings, sculptures, videos, and installations by both established and emerging artists and collectives.
The Biennale will also feature two new venues: the National Museum and Wat Bowon, expanding its reach across the city
Highlights include Mella Jaarsma’s exploration of disappearing knowledge, Pokchat Worasub’s observations on ethnic identity, Agi Haines’ provocative look at human adaptation, Adel Abdessemed’s study of mother-child interconnectedness, Mutmee Pimdao Panichsamai’s investigation into the human mind, and Gimhongsok’s exploration of labour conditions.
Photo: Adel Abdessemed, DIE TAUBENPOST, 2021. //©Adel Abdessemed, Paris ADAGP
Additionally, major sculptures by Anish Kapoor and Tony Cragg will be on display at One Bangkok
For art enthusiasts, the Bangkok Art Biennale is a dream come true.
As Professor Kanya, whose 14-meter-long artwork will be featured, notes, “In the past, such an opportunity to view world-renowned art was reserved for those who travelled abroad or pursued overseas studies.”
Photo: (from Left to right) Kanya Charoensupkul and Choi Jeong Hwa talk about their BAB participation.//Courtesy of BAB
Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, a former Minister of Tourism and Sports and a dedicated supporter of the BAB since its inception, echoes this sentiment.
“This Biennale is a dream come true for a dreamer like me,” she told Thai PBS World.
“I never imagined that we would attract such talented artists and skilled workers. It seemed impossible at first, but now, thanks to the Biennale, it’s a reality.
“Art is education, art is passion, art is spirit, art is peace and definitely art is healing,” she noted, adding that art gives everyone hope and artists are the warriors that make the world a better place.
South Korean artist Choi Jiang Hwa expressed his enthusiasm for participating in the Bangkok Art Biennale and his desire to engage Thai audiences with his work.
Photo: South Korean artist Choi Jiang Hwa is in Bangkok for the BAB 2024 press conference.// Photo by Veena Thoopkrajae
Inspired by the dynamic energy of urban environments, he will create a sustainable art piece for the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center during the Sustainability Expo 2024.
“Trash is art, and art is from the heart,” he proclaimed. In today’s world, we grapple with pressing issues like climate change, pandemics, war, and human-induced environmental destruction.
It’s increasingly clear that humanity, as an inseparable part of Earth, faces critical challenges. Art offers a powerful means for warrior artists to safeguard our planet and wash away the negativity of these times.
“The Bangkok Art Biennale is a vital component in the development of our city,” declared Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt.
"A city’s quality isn’t solely measured by infrastructure like skytrains and roads. This four-month-long exhibition, unlike many others, is a living, citywide event that benefits communities directly.”
Photo: Wat Bowon is one of the new BAB venues this year. //Photo courtesy of BAB
The event venues of BAB 2024 are Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Wat Prayoon, Wat Bowon (The Museum & Library of Abbots), Bangkok Art and Culture Center, CentralWorld, Museum Siam, National Gallery of Thailand, Siwamokkha Phiman Hall at the National Museum Bangkok, One Bangkok and BAB BOX at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
Prof. Dr Apinan Poshyananda, the Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the Bangkok Art Biennale, believes that art offers a much-needed refuge in these challenging times.
Photo: Prof Dr Apinan Poshyananda who leads the curatorial team of the BAB 2024
With recent landslides, floods, and political turmoil both domestically and internationally, it’s clear that our planet is sending a message.
The Biennale will showcase the power of art to inspire and guide us through these turbulent times.
Photo: Alter Terrestrial. In collaboration with Nicholas Tamás. Image courtesy of MU Hybrid Art House. //Photo by Hanneke Wetzer
Photo: Jessica Segall, (un)common Intimacy, 2018. 4K video loop, 08:00 min
The Bangkok Art Biennale is guided by a distinguished panel of advisors, including Marina Abramović, Lito Camacho, Kim Camacho, Mami Kataoka, Jean-Hubert Martin, Qiu Zhijie, and Dr Eugene Tan.
Under the leadership of Prof Dr Apinan, the curatorial team for this year’s edition comprises Pojai Akratanakul, Dr Brian Curtin Akiko Miki, and Dr. Paramaporn Sirikulchayanont.
