Thailand Biennale Showcases Phuket's Cultural Heritage Beyond Tourism

The Thailand Biennale is taking place in Phuket until April 30, highlighting the island's historical crafts and cultural identity distinct from its mass tourism industry. This fourth edition, organized since 2018 in different Thai regions, features 65 artists and collectives across 20 venues, including participants from Phuket, other parts of Thailand, and international contributors. Co-artistic director David Teh noted the event aims to promote Thai artists and bring contemporary art to an area with limited gallery infrastructure, supported primarily by the Thai Ministry of Culture. The biennale emphasizes craftsmanship, with works like Imhathai Suwatthanaslip's glass slipper incorporating local materials and artisans, reflecting Phuket's past as a hub for fishing, tin mining, and rubber manufacturing before tourism dominated.