A craft for our times: the Yan Lipao handbag

1 Oct 22:33 Key points summarised by AI

The Yan Lipao handbag gained international prominence after HM Queen Suthida carried it at King Charles III's coronation, drawing significant admiration and social media buzz.
This unique Thai basketry, with historical roots dating back to the Ayutthaya period, was revitalized by HM Queen Sirikit (the Queen Mother), who established the SUPPORT Foundation to conserve, develop, and promote the craft, transforming it into a high-end art form and an economic livelihood for Southern communities.
Crafted from finely processed yan lipao vines, often incorporating silver or gold threads, these exquisite bags are products of intricate, generations-old weaving techniques, requiring immense skill and time, making each piece a valuable and exclusive work of art.
The recent global attention on Yan Lipao underscores the rich cultural heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of Thai handicrafts, positioning them for greater appreciation on the world stage.

Bright at Midnight: Conceptual echoes of Bas Jan Ader Arrive in Bangkok

Today 15:13 Key points summarised by AI

"Bright at Midnight" marks the first institutional exhibition in Asia of Dutch conceptual artist Bas Jan Ader, showcasing his enigmatic work at Bangkok Kunsthalle until January 10, 2027.
The exhibition delves into Ader's legacy, exploring themes of vulnerability and the ephemeral, made more poignant by his 1975 disappearance at sea during an art project.
It encourages viewers to engage with art beyond its material form, featuring key pieces like "Thoughts unsaid, Then forgotten," "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks," and the haunting film "Launch of the Ocean Wave."
A highlight is the planned live transformation of "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks" in 2026, where ropes will be cut, creating a new layer of art from the destructive impact.
The exhibition challenges conventional art consumption, advocating for a deeper appreciation of conceptual and research-driven artistic practices over mere fascination with art as an asset class.