New Southbound Policy Portal

Taiwan artist Tu Wei-cheng smiles next to a plastic skeleton of a giant in a replica archaeological dig he created for the inaugural Thailand Biennale running through Feb. 28, 2019. (Courtesy of MOC)

Two large-scale installations by Taiwan creators featuring the skeletons of a giant and a snake and a long tail boat are among the key attractions at the inaugural Thailand Biennale in Krabi, according to the Ministry of Culture Nov. 5.
 
Thai organizers chose “Giant Ruins” by Tu Wei-cheng and artist collective LuxuryLogico’s “Voyage in Time” to remain on permanent display after the event closes next year, showing stronger links between the two nations, the MOC said. The collaboration between the two ministries of culture reflect government efforts to deepen ties with the New Southbound Policy target country.
 
The NSP is enhancing Taiwan’s agricultural, business, cultural, education, tourism and trade ties with the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, six South Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand. It is seen as the government’s most effective policy for advancing Taiwan’s engagement with the Indo-Pacific while promoting peace, stability and prosperity.
 
Tu’s installation of a replica archeological dig with the bones of a giant and a huge snake emerging from the dirt was given special permission to be exhibited in the Khao Khanab Nam Caves, the MOC said. The artist was inspired by a Krabi folktale about the two foes fighting over a princess.
 
Taipei City-based LuxuryLogico’s 26-meter long tail boat, based on the design of local craft and borrowing traditional building techniques, floats on the Krabi River. Its shape is crooked in places to mimic the distortion of an interrupted panoramic shot.   
 
Running Nov. 2 through Feb. 28, 2019, the event features works by 55 international artists and groups placed at outdoor locations across the province. (CPY-E)