In perfect harmony: an ode to Buddhism

14 Sept 01:43 Key points summarised by AI

Chalermchai Dongchan, a dedicated civil servant, proudly performs the ancient and sacred Maha Chat Kham Luang Buddhist chant for the King at the Emerald Buddha Temple.
The Maha Chat Kham Luang is a challenging traditional chant, passed down since the Sukhothai Period, requiring extensive oral training, precise intonation, and harmonious unison from four chanters.
Despite the difficulty and time commitment, the Religious Affairs Department actively trains new generations of male chanters, ensuring the preservation of this intricate cultural and religious practice.

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.