While New York City may be known as the “city that never sleeps,” Bangkok is more than happy to give the Big Apple a run for its money. Early next month, the Rooftop Gallery in Thong Lor will pay homage to the City of Angels after dark with “Night Shift,” a multi-media exhibition showcasing a diverse array of works from several internationally renowned Thai artists.
The exhibition is set to run for exactly one month – from May 10 through June 10. An inaugural artists’ reception is currently planned to run from 7pm to 9:30pm on exhibition’s opening night. The opening reception will feature a live video mural put together by Vinni Kiniki and Deyan Raykav entitled “The City of Angels by Night.”
“Night Shift” marks the maiden curatorial jaunt for Yvonne Liang, who has gained experience in the art world through her work as a journalist (her writing has appeared in Coconuts Bangkok, among other publications). It is her hope that the exhibition will capture the richness and diversity found within the capital after the sun goes down. To that end, each work featured in “Night Shift” focuses on a unique component of city life in the wee hours, from the lonely beggar, to the working hostesses, to the group of booze-laden revelers out for a night of merriment.
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Given the exhibition’s emphasis on the city of Bangkok, location was of critical importance. According to Liang, Rooftop Gallery provides an ideal setting to accentuate the artistic works on display. “The gallery space itself has the capacity to showcase high end pieces, but the fact that it’s on a rooftop overlooking the Bangkok street life below, and the grittiness of the concrete on the exterior space of the rooftop gallery, gives the exact feeling I wanted for ‘Night Shift,’ which depicts a somber, grounded view of the night scene.”
The artists whose work is to be featured include Withit Chanthamarit, Benya Hegenbarth, Ohm Phanphiroj, P7, Ponlawat Poungsiri, Ekkat Punyatara, Miti Ruangkritya and Cherdwood Sakolaya. Artist and designer P7 has created a special painting specifically for the exhibition in keeping with the Bangkok nightlife theme.
In contrast to prior exhibitions put on at the Rooftop Gallery, “Night Shift” will strictly on feature works from native Thais, adding an additional layer of authenticity. “It’s a unique opportunity for both the Thai and expat community to check out local talents and support the local art community,” says Liang.
FIND IT:
Night Shift
Rooftop Gallery
4th floor at 440/10 Sukhumvit 55, between Thong Lor 14 and 16 . Thong Lo BTS.
May 10 – June 10
