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On arrival in Phuket and anywhere throughout Thailand in general,
it quickly becomes apparent, that art in some form or other, can
be found everywhere. From its elaborate temples, the beach sculptures
of Patong, or hotel entrance hall craftwork, not forgetting the
ever numerous art shops, selling reproduction oils; art in all its
forms, exposes itself from every corner of the island.
A little known fact though, is that Phuket has a thriving local
art scene that includes some of the country's top artists all producing
work of an international standard. Many of these artists belong
to the Andaman Art Club; a society established a few years back,
to encourage the interest in local artists and photographers in
general as well as the local culture. Original works by these artists
are on display in monthly exhibitions, at the Phuket Library in
Saphan Hin (near Phuket City).
The exhibitions show works that depict photography, oil and water-colour
paintings as well as mixed media; including sculpture. If interested
in art in general, whether as a collector or someone who simply
enjoys attending exhibitions, these little publicised showings are
highly worthwhile. Not only do you get to see or purchase some of
the very best in original art to be found anywhere in the country;
you can meet the artists themselves too. Some are in attendance
during exhibiting times (or by appointment) but you will certainly
meet them at the opening parties.
This month's exhibition shows the work of various local Phuket
water-colour artists. The opening party, which the general public
are welcome to attend, will be on October 3, 2006 at 17.00 - 20.00.
The exhibition runs until October 30. 2006.
Upcoming Exhibitions by the Andaman Art Club in Phuket
- November 2006 - Exhibition of Batik Works (including
well known Phuket-based batik artist, Phe Nan owner of the well
known Batik House in Rawai.)
- December 2006 - Exhibition of Mixed Media
Future Art Happenings
- Development of the Rawai Art Village: Due to the numerous
local artists being based in the Rawai, Nai Harn area, the development
of an Art Village (still at the planning stage) is hoped to be
developed. Not truly a village as such, an idea is being drafted,
to draw up a map of local art studios, that the general public
can visit, meet the artists and attend art workshops. This should
be up and running sometime in 2007.
- Artists in the Sun: Also in the pipeline is the idea
to hold an Art Day in Nai Harn that includes art exhibitions by
the local artists as well as music by local musicians; a creative
festival peculiar to this region and Phuket's artists..
- Art Club House 'Baan Ingle' (House close to the beach):
Located on the beach, at the end of Soi Kep Sup, just opposite
the Batik House in Rawai, will be complete in early December.
Owned and built by Khun Gina, this artist's 'hangout' is going
to be the place to meet local artists and musicians.
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