The work of Santi Wangchuan often refers to everyday realities in his hometown of Ubon Ratchathani, in the province of Isan, Thailand. His practice is deeply rooted in his family’s background in traditional forms of weaving. His mixed media objects and installations utilize the language of this dying craft – which faces eventual extinction as cottage industries are supplanted by urbanization and mechanical technology – as well as found objects of especial significance, such as personal belongings and remnants of clothes that once belonged to family members. In this quartet of vibrantly hued panels, studded with floral blooms, the artist was inspired by the way of life of local communities in his home province. He connects the saturated palette and upbeat tenor of the works to an almost innate sense of optimism, writing: “The art of weaving is a traditional handicraft, which is regarded as the intangible heritage of the people of Isan. I want to present here the colors seen in life, the ties to the cultures that have been fused into the local identity, that makes life bright and happy.”

SANTI WANGCHUAN (b. 1988, Thailand) makes hand-woven works inspired by his family’s traditions, reflecting an integration of religion, stories, equipment, and tools that are native to his hometown in Thailand. Wangchuan has a PhD from the Faculty of Painting Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University, and recently graduated with an MFA in Visual Arts, the Faculty of Painting Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University, Bangkok. He was awarded the “3rd Honoured Bronze Award” at the 61st National Exhibition of Art, Bangkok, Thailand in 2015 and has participated in multiple art exhibitions, such as the 35th Bualuang Painting Exhibition, The Queen’s Gallery, Bangkok in 2013, and the Amata Foundation’s ‘Art Awards’. He has exhibited in art fairs in Singapore and in Hong Kong.