A delegation led by Artistic Director Arin Rungjang and Curator Marisa Pantharak Ratchadet conducted a site survey at the Surin Beach Glass Balcony at Laem Ta Ma, Cherng Talay, on Thursday (Mar 5).
Joining them were South African artist Nolan Oswald Dennis and his team, alongside Rewat Areerob, President-elect of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), and Anchalee Vanich Thepbutr, President of the Phuket Art Association.
The group reviewed plans for sculptures to be featured in the Biennale, aligning with its overarching theme that contemplates the paradox of enduring love, the passage of time and sustainability.
A key highlight of the exhibition will be the ‘Moon Calendar’ sculpture, designed to reflect on the glass balcony and shimmer over the seawater, symbolising eternity.
The Surin Beach Glass Balcony, currently under construction, spans approximately nine rai and offers a view of the Andaman Sea. Built with a budget of B196 million, it is expected to become a major landmark attracting art enthusiasts and tourists alike.
The Biennale will feature sculptures and exhibitions across three main zones in Phuket, including iconic locations such as Laem Phromthep Viewpoint, Queen Sirikit Park, Saphan Hin Public Park, Phuket Old Town and the Clocktower Roundabout (Surin Circle) in Phuket Town.
A total of 49 artists have been selected to participate, comprising 15 Thai and 34 international artists. Thirty artists have already been introduced, and they are currently studying the region’s unique artistic, cultural and environmental landscape to create works that foster a balance between humanity and nature, said an official report of the site visit.
Organisers hope the event will strengthen Phuket’s reputation as a global art hub, encourage private-sector investment and boost cultural tourism, ultimately generating income for the country, the report added.
Additionally, the initiative aims to inspire youth and emerging artists while promoting sustainable development in Phuket’s creative industry, the report concluded.