Chiang Mai's artistic practices shaped by history, displacement, and ritual in group exhibition

Chiang Mai, once the heart of the Lanna kingdom, possesses a unique rhythm influenced by its rich history and scenic landscapes, characterized by rice paddies, traditional artisan communities, and temples that evoke a sense of eternity. The region's tourism increasingly embraces meditation and self-reflection, closely linked to local culture and artistic endeavors. Inside Wat Umong Suan Putthatham temple, artist Ubatsat finds a deep connection between ritual and art, starting and concluding his days with the chants of temple monks. For the upcoming group exhibition "Living Another Future" (2024–25) at MAIIAM, he is creating Burmica (2022), merging Burmese protest imagery with elements from Picasso's Guernica (1937) to highlight the impact of cross-border conflicts on local awareness. Artist Rushdi Anwar, based in Chiang Mai, contemplates displacement, drawing parallels between his Kurdish roots and the immigrant communities in the city, emphasizing how shared grief becomes a collective legacy. This interplay of historical depth and contemporary issues shapes the city's vibrant artistic scene.