Grassroots Art Activism and Biennale Plans Reshape Thailand's Isaan Region
A grassroots art movement is emerging in Thailand's Isaan region, setting itself apart from the more established Chiang Mai scene. Thanom Chapakdee, a prominent figure, introduced the Khon Kaen Manifesto in October 2018, a three-week exhibition that addressed social injustices. Authorities intervened by ordering the concealment of a piece featuring activist Jatupat Boonpattararaksa. Chapakdee has additional events planned, including the UBON Agenda from 21–30 November and a second Khon Kaen Manifesto from 10–20 December. Other notable projects are The Isaan Record, initiated in 2016 by Fabian Drahmoune, and Noir Row Art Space. Meanwhile, skepticism surrounds the state-organized Thailand Biennale, now rescheduled for 11 June 2021, as noted by curator Gridthiya Gaweewong. The region's artistic scene is also invigorated by filmmakers like Apichatpong Weerasethakul and artists delving into Isaan's history.
Key facts
- Isaan's art scene emphasizes political collectivism and grassroots activism, contrasting with Chiang Mai's more aesthetic, community-oriented approach.
- Thanom Chapakdee launched the Khon Kaen Manifesto in October 2018 in a derelict building, defying authorities and featuring works on social injustice.
- The second Thailand Biennale is scheduled for 11 June 2021 in Korat, curated by Yuko Hasegawa with a focus on local ecologies.
- Gridthiya Gaweewong curates for Jim Thompson Art Center and Jim Thompson Farm, promoting Isaan's vernacular traditions through exhibitions like Joyful Khaen, Joyful Dance (2015).
- The Isaan Record, founded in 2016 by Fabian Drahmoune, reports on grassroots issues in the region, including human rights and arts.
- Upcoming events include UBON Agenda (21–30 November) and the second Khon Kaen Manifesto (10–20 December) in abandoned venues.
- Chapakdee announced The Manifesto by Maielie in June 2019, a planned gallery and cultural exchange center.
- Artists like Apichatpong Weerasethakul and Korakrit Arunanondchai draw inspiration from Isaan, exploring its history and cultural context.
Entities
Artists
- Thanom Chapakdee
- Gridthiya Gaweewong
- Yuko Hasegawa
- Fabian Drahmoune
- Jatupat Boonpattararaksa
- Nutdanai Jitbunjong
- Eric Bunnag Booth
- Jean Michel Beurdeley
- Pratchaya Phinthong
- Pinnaree Sanpitak
- Mit Jai Inn
- Apichatpong Weerasethakul
- Dusadee Huntrakul
- Prateep Suthathongthai
- Korakrit Arunanondchai
- Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit
- David Teh
- Sarit Thanarat
- King Chulalongkorn
Institutions
- MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum
- The Isaan Record
- Noir Row Art Space
- Jim Thompson Art Center
- Jim Thompson Farm
- Thailand Biennale
- Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo
- Office of Contemporary Art and Culture
- Bangkok Art & Culture Centre
- 100 Tonson Gallery
- Setouchi Triennale
- Bangkok Art Biennale
- Future Forward
- Tourism Authority of Thailand
- ArtReview
Locations
- Isaan
- Thailand
- Chiang Mai
- Bangkok
- Korat
- Khon Kaen
- Udon Thani
- Ubon Ratchathani
- Sisaket
- Sakhon Nakhon
- Loei
- Dan Sai
- Krabi
- Tokyo
- Japan
- Laos
- Phimai Historical Park
- Royal Plaza
- Ramasun Station
- Vietnam
- USA