Dialogue between past and present from a realistic landscape

#InsomniaInExhibition

A dialogue between the past and present, from realistic landscapes to social symbols. "Re/Place", an exhibition that questions the power structure and the memory of the imprisoned by Witawat Thongkhieo

"Re/Place" is like a dialogue between the artist's past and present selves, through overlapping and interfering with his old works, similar to "bombing" art in the Street Art circle. But instead of taking other artists' space, the artist chooses to bomb his own works to reflect the changes in his thoughts and attitudes towards Thai society.

The artist reinterprets his old works, replacing the peaceful nature views with symbols that reflect political and social changes. The dots, stripes, and abstract elements added to the images are not just artistic tools, but symbolic language that speaks of the power structure, silence, and hidden truths, like an artistic code that reflects political issues. This exhibition is therefore like a representation of contemporary Thai society, where people are gradually awakening and moving beyond political naivete to a deeper understanding of the problems of power structures and oppression.

One of the key aspects of this exhibition is the presentation of the stories of those imprisoned under Section 112 through faint text drawn on old paintings. These are barely visible unless you look closely. These texts come from letters written by lawyer Anon Nampa from prison, talking about hope, being forgotten, and waiting for freedom. The paintings were inspired by postcards written by lawyer Anon’s daughter.

“Re/Place” is a process of questioning oneself and society. It allows viewers to see that even artists can change their own minds. The artist is not saying that change is right or wrong, but he is inviting viewers to question what we were shaped to believe in the past and do we still believe it now? Whose stories are hidden beneath the structure of society? Will we forget them as time goes by?

📍Exhibition location: VS Gallery (N22 Soi Narathiwat 22, Bangkok)
🗓 Now on display - March 30, 2025
🕚 Open every Wednesday - Sunday from 12.00 - 18.00 hrs.

🚘 Parking available
💵 Free admission

#VSGallery #InsomniaScene #trip #ExhibitionReview

#NewYearNewTrip

Post by Insomnia.Scene | Mar 8, 2025