Art
Akkara Naktamna
Demonic
Street photographer turned conceptual artist Akkara Naktamna comes up with a disturbing and provocative photo exhibition.
Artist Akkara Naktamna’s ironic sense of humor and ambivalence toward the Buddhist faith manifests in his latest solo exhibition Demonic. This set displays a series of photos that question the sanctity of the Buddhist faith, and trains the spotlight on the perceived downfall of Buddhism in the last few years, as revealed in scandalous issues involving temples being accused of fund fraud or monks wearing designer clothing while traveling in a luxurious jet.
Akkara, himself a Buddhist, plays up flash photography to reveal the “demons” hiding within the folds of a monk’s saffron-colored gown. Each photograph reveals a chilling image of blackened hands holding up different artifacts, meant to symbolize transgressions against the basic principles of Buddhism.
Each photograph hides a profound and provocative meaning, stripping these vestments off their sacred representation, and bringing forth the realization of how close the “demon” is to us or how we may have been fooled by the figures we once thought were our spiritual anchors. One photo, for instance, of a demon holding a doll in his hands portrays the immoral circumstance of a monk having physical contact with an underaged girl.
The young photographer realizes that this abstract, yet eye-opening, series may produce both backlash and criticism, given that Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country. “Well, if they look closer, they will know that I’m not talking about Buddhism in general but of specific circumstances,” Akkara says. “Buddism didn’t teach us to believe, but to think critically before believing. So I hope that the viewers criticize consciously.”
Sereechai Puttes/Time Out Bangkok
ATT 19
Another heritage building in Chaorenkrung is converted into an Instaworthy multidisciplinary art hub.
The historic neighbourhood of Charoenkrung has welcomed yet another creative space, ATT 19. This new art and lifestyle hub is actually an endeavor of the Attakanwongs to gather the passions—from art to antiques to fashion—of each family member under one roof. (They are the same family behind the long-running and much-respected Lek Gallery, located in the same hood.)
Set in what used to be Arthorn Suksa Chinese School, the multidisciplinary art space displays items that have been carefully handpicked by the new generation of a family with deep roots in the antiques scene. It wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to expect aesthetics that blend modern ideals and stylish eclecticism.
Gigantic ancient wooden doors open up to an airy and inviting space with art pieces adorning white walls, raw concrete flooring, and an exposed teakwood ceiling. The entire ground floor acts as a shop that sells collector’s pieces and rare bric-a-brac. Don’t be surprised if you spot a carved wooden chair from the Ming Dynasty or a massive piece of embroidered fabric from the 19th century. One corner displays ceramic pieces that will start conversations but won’t empty out your pocket, including uniquely-shaped, almost distorted, handcrafted pieces from Japan, where the art of imperfection is valued. Another corner flaunts a selection of gorgeous vintage clothing from around the globe, many of them rare and hard-to-find.
The second floor is a gallery, exhibiting art pieces by acclaimed contemporary artists as well as the works of emerging Thai talents. At the middle of it all is a tree-filled courtyard. The high-ceilinged area boasts a sunroof that allows natural light to filter in and light up the entire place during the day.
ATT 19 also houses B.A.A.B (Badass Asia Bar), the rebranded and relocated outlet of Ku Thai Bar, previously located on Soi Suan Plu, that serves Asian-inspired tapas and drinks. Mad Beef, a chef’s table concept with a focus on—you’ve guessed it—beef is also set to open.