The current problem regarding the Mekong's Khon Pi Luang rapids is recounted through art at “No Distance To Khon Pi Luang”, running at Warin Lab Contemporary until May 20.
This is a solo exhibition by Ubatsat, an artist and social activist known for his focus on social issues. He deploys multidisciplinary practices to illustrate oppression and undesirable predicaments which the marginalised have to go through.
Through a variety of mediums, he externalises his concept which derives from examinations where he is intimately involved with the subject matter.
According to him, the Mekong River and locals along it face a lurking menace. Unpredictable fluctuations in off-season water currents and the disappearance of river sediment deposits are repercussions of dam construction in the upstream area.
He began work on the Mekong River community-related project a few years ago. His latest work centres on the Khon Pi Luang rapids.
Deviation of the natural flow from seasonal patterns leaves Khon Pi Luang vulnerable. Fish and birds which migrate upstream to their usual breeding grounds can no longer find suitable places to lay eggs.
As for humans, communities along the river are not only struggling from the current situation but with the upcoming mega project that will irreversibly transform the landscape. The question is — how much distance stands between them?
On show are two bodies of work. On one side is a semi-abstract painting titled No Distance To Khon Pi Luang accompanied by a documentary video. This piece is in dialogue with White Eel In The Dawn Of The Exile, which consists of 168 wood panels using a printmaking technique.
Warin Lab Contemporary is located at OP Garden, Charoen Krung 36 and opens Tuesday to Saturday from 10.30am to 7.30pm.
Visit warinlab.com or call 083-095-2028.
