DUNIA MAG / Twitter: @duniamagazine
Thai artist Banjerd Lekkong in his Bangkok studio with his iron sculpture “Hanuman’s Standing” ahead of his solo exhibition at Agora Gallery in New York from May 20 to June 9, 2016.
The exhibition “Metamorphosis: Banjerd Lekkong a Solo Exhibition” will open on May 20, 2016 and run until June 9, 2016 at the prestigious Agora Gallery. The exhibition of metal sculptures by Banjerd Lekkong, who is from Thailand, will be the first solo exhibition by a Thai artist at Agora Gallery, a contemporary fine art gallery located in the heart of New York’s famous Chelsea art district.
The Artist
Banjerd Lekkong, produces very unique metal sculptures. Born in Nakhon Ratchasima in Thailand’s northeastern region, Banjerd now resides in Bangkok. He was initially trained as an architect and has also worked as an interior designer. His intricate and lively compositions, all unique pieces, often represent Hindu gods, such as Ganesha, and mythical figures which are integral parts of the culture of the dominantly Buddhist Thailand.
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“In combining ancient material and a well-defined, unique visual language, Lekkong invites us to reconsider the stories and lessons of Hinduism. His is a modern perspective, but also one that speaks to the timeless ideas of surprise, the call to action, and interconnectivity. He describes his chosen medium – unadorned gray steel and iron – as one that radiates power.” (bio)
11 Monkey Kings Metamorphosed into Three-Headed Elephant | (The Mighty Erawan) | Iron | 25″ x 28″ x 42″
“We are delighted with Banjerd’s unique iron and steel sculpture”, says Angela Di Bello, director of Agora Gallery. “I feel that his original stylistic expression with a focus on billowing lines that express strength, movement and emotional tenor will resonate well with our audience.”
An Owl Gives a Life | Steel | 31.5″ x 26″ x 8.5″
“Metamorphosis: Banjerd Lekkong a Solo Exhibition” is part of a project to help Thai artists gain recognition in New York.
Sponsor
The project is supported by Singha Park, a social enterprise project of Thailand’s Singha Corp. Established in 1933, Singha Corp, Thailand’s first and largest beer maker, has been an ardent supporter of the arts and artists for a number of years through awards and grants. Its sponsorship of this exhibition entails funding the transport of the heavy works of art to New York.
This exhibition marks the start of a program to conduct an annual search for new Thai talents. Under the “Thai Art on the World Stage with Singha Park” project, Singha is working with Agora Gallery to give outstanding Thai artists the opportunity to enter the global art market by exhibiting in New York.
“Singha recognizes the value of Banjerd’s work”, says Singha Park Managing Director Pongrat Luangthamrongcharoen. “We are excited about this partnership and we plan to do this yearly. Our goal is to introduce outstanding Thai artists to the global art scene.”
Gallery: www.agora-gallery.com
(Source of most information: Singha Park)
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