‘Changing
Faces’ – a watercolour by Alan Kirkland- Roath.
Tony Godel
The Sheraton Pattaya Resort is hosting the largest contemporary art
exhibition ever held in Pattaya for the next three months, from 29 January –
25 April 2009. On display is the work of nearly 30 local and international
artists, there is no admission charge and the venue itself is remarkable.
‘New Ecologies’ was organized by Pattaya’s Gallery Opium in conjunction with
Bangkok-based art critic Brian Curtin and the team of emergent curator
Manipa Jayawan and expatriate artist Ingrid Van der Heyden. Over a year in
the planning, the outcome seems to be a great success.
However, while the site of the Sheraton is remarkable it clearly is not a
conventional place to show art. The curator and organizers were undoubtedly
challenged but they have made brilliant use of unusual spots such as the
ponds, an outdoor restaurant and the beach. Van der Heyden’s sculpture of a
figure hugging a tree on the beach is particularly notable.
A
woodpulp and plastic figure by Ingrid Van der Heyden hugs a tree.
Many, if not all, mediums are on display: from painting to installation to
video. ‘New Ecologies’ is a curious title but the exhibition proposes new
ways of looking at and experiencing Pattaya, outside of stereotypes.
Regardless of the implications of this aim, the exhibition is well worth a
visit.
Because of the Sheraton’s location on a cliff, you can spend much time
finding the artworks. Some are hidden in corners and the experience creates
a feeling of exploration and surprise. There are too many artists to mention
by name but anyone who visits will definitely discover a favourite.
Some works will provoke discussion, such as the ambitious and imposing
installations on the beach by Pratya Raktabutr and Simona Ambrosini. I defy
anyone not to respond to these works, positively or negatively. However,
Raktabutr’s use of pastel colours have an uplifting effect while Ambrosini’s
wire and shell sculpture fits perfectly with the ever-changing horizon.
Van der Heyden created a particularly enjoyable installation in the interior
of the resort. Crossing the boundary between sculpture and painting, the
artist has created soft, padded figures from bed-sheets that are highly
evocative. Nearby, small prints by Pat Savage whetted my appetite to see
more of this artist’s work.
The stairwell at the entrance displays two fine watercolours by Alan
Kirkland-Roath. One expertly executed painting explores themes of personal
identity in terms of disguise. Large, ravishing paintings by Graham Hiskett
also make a great impression. Hiskett has a master’s touch.
Various workshops will take place during the period of ‘New Ecologies’,
providing practical demonstrations from the artists and supplementing the
event with performance.
Finally, the team behind all this is seeking much needed sponsorship to
ensure it becomes an annual event. Any potential sponsor can be assured of
great publicity for their support of the cultural life of Pattaya. Events
like this are a must and deserve patronage.
Pratya
Raktabutr exhibits colourful stonewear on the beach.
