Thai artists explore Cold War's psychological aftermath in Jim Thompson Art Center exhibition

The Jim Thompson Art Center in Bangkok presents 'Uncountable Time,' a group exhibition examining the lingering psychological effects of the Cold War in Thailand. Curated by artist Arin Rungjang, the show features three works by four Thai artists that approach the historical period not as a defined era but as a pervasive influence still shaping perceptions and experiences. Nontawat Numbenchapol and Kridpuj Dhansandors contribute a three-channel video titled 'A chip off the old block' (2023), featuring relatives of activists discussing state persecution. Viriya Chotpanyavisut presents 'Another Depth' (2021), a series of dreamy images suggesting how the Cold War continues to distort everyday perceptions. Rungruang Sittirerk's 'TO AND FRO' (2023) offers a 22-minute road trip exploring personal migration stories alongside infrastructure development from the 1950s. The exhibition runs through 30 June at the Center's concrete headquarters, which opened in 2021. Director Gridthiya Gaweewong has stated that all future exhibitions will connect to Jim Thompson, his era, or his house. The American silk merchant and former spy disappeared in 1967, and his legacy informs the Center's programming, which began in 2003 as a complement to the Jim Thompson House tourist attraction.