ARK-T

River City Bangkok, in collaboration with 608 Gallery, presents “ARK-T” or Art Road Korean Thai, an exhibition aimed to build bridges between Korean and Thai artistic communities and showcases 15 talented Korean and Thai artists

Life does not allow us to know exactly which path we should take. To find that path, we experience many choices and trial and error along the way. The same goes for art; many artists encounter numerous paths in their quest to find their own unique voice and style.

This ARK-T event marks a new journey for Korean artists as they seek to discover their own paths. In this journey, they will engage with Thai artists and audiences, aiming to assess and communicate their own paths. Through this exhibition, we hope it becomes a starting point for creating a two - way street rather than a one-way street. There may be no faster way for two countries with different histories and cultures to communicate and unite than through art. 

We believe that we can find that path at this ARK-T event. Art, as a universal language, transcends the barriers of geography, politics, and time. It serves as a mirror, reflecting not only the personal experiences and cultural heritage of the artists but also the collective emotions and stories of their societies . Korean and Thai artists, through their diverse mediums and narratives, will come together to create a rich tapestry of shared experiences and perspectives. This cross-cultural exchange is an invaluable opportunity to explore new creative landscapes, challenge preconceived notions, and foster mutual understanding.

The exhibition showcases 15 talented Korean and Thai artists;. Brian Kims, Emil, Juli Baker and Summer, Kim Dojin, Kim Yoonkyung, LAMUNLAMAI, Lee Taxoo, Manwook, Ohana, Palim, Ponoree , Sandier, Shunita, Um Jae Won and Yoo Jae Youn. By showcasing their works and engaging in meaningful dialogues, artists will foster empathy, respect, and curiosity. Through these artistic encounters, we can celebrate our differences, find common ground, and create a more harmonious world.

About the Artists

1. Brian Kims evokes a sense of familiarity while at the same time a sense of intrigue through his work by expressing relatable images with his unique characters. The characters all have distinct appearances and features, which allows us to enjoy and appreciate each character’s individual charm. The variously shaped animals that appear in the work may be seen as depicting people living in modern society, or they can represent adorable images of the pets in our lives. While looking at the work, each person can find their own favorite character that they appreciate and are drawn to.

While we may share similarities with some of the multitude of people around us, there is no aspect in which we are identical to another. In this piece, the artist portrays this notion about people’s uniqueness by using differently shaped characters. The characters on the canvas are representative of people dealing with the hustle and bustle of modern life.

2. Emil or Park Hyun Woong has established a unique artistic world that combines modern sensibilities with retro elements. His work, in particular, centers around robot stories that blend childhood memories with futuristic imagination. He recalls the excitement and imagination of discussing robot cartoons with friends during his childhood and connects that pure enthusiasm to his current work. His latest project features works depicting the journey of the protagonist ‘BB’, who travels to repair seven robots, set against a backdrop of space travel and robot repair.

In this work, Emil combines storytelling with visual art, unfolding a narrative set in a unique cosmic background. His work is both futuristic and emotionally resonant, inviting viewers to project themselves into the world of the artwork. Through the unique expressions of the robots and BB's journey, Emil explores the interaction between human emotions and the mechanical world. This work represents a new challenge and a continuous exploration for him, showcasing his passion for visually unraveling stories through various media.

Emil received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Hongik University and has presented his work in 43 solo exhibitions and various domestic and international group exhibitions. His notable solo exhibitions include "With" at Space UM in 2024, "Journey Through the Garden: An Artistic Exploration" at Orangery, and "BB’s Summer" at Gallery Artcode in 2023. Additionally, his work has been featured in numerous solo exhibitions at venues such as Seoul Asan Medical Center Gallery and Gallery Sun.

3. Juli Baker and Summer or “Phaan” Chanaradee Chatrakul Na Ayudhya is an artist, writer, and traveler known for her vibrant, bold paintings of women with abstract forms. After studying Fashion and Textiles at Chulalongkorn University, she found her passion in painting, using art as a form of journaling. Her works draw from personal memories, books, pop culture, society, and politics — often exploring themes of feminism and self-expression. Handwritten texts frequently appear in her pieces, highlighting her voice as both an artist and storyteller. Juli has collaborated with brands like Nike, Vogue Thailand, Lamy, and Maison Kitsune, and exhibited in solo shows across Bangkok and Tokyo, including “Nowhere Woman”, “She’s Too Much”, and “I Said Goodbye To Me”.

4. Kim Dojin, a graduate of Hongik University with a major in ceramics, is an artist whose work bridges the personal and the universal. He has participated in prestigious residency programs, including the LH Project in Joseph, Oregon, USA; Gallery Sanskriti in Maihar, India; and Seoul Art Space – Sindang in Korea.

With a career that includes participation in over 50 group exhibitions, Kim’s artistic journey reflects an evolution from exploring inner landscapes to embracing universal themes. His abstract expressionist works capture fleeting moments of spiritual essence, revealing the deep interconnectedness between the self and the cosmos. Through his creations, Kim celebrates the intangible beauty felt with the heart, inviting viewers to embrace the unknown and find joy in the infinite possibilities of art.

5. Kim Yoonkyung’s work exemplifies a heartfelt journey of connection, inspiration, and artistic exploration rooted in her deep affection for cats. Her art celebrates the individuality of each feline, encapsulating their unique "carsonality" while reflecting on broader themes of coexistence and harmony.

Through her acrylic paintings and crayon-drawn series, Kim bridges the simplicity of childhood ideals with a sophisticated artistic sensibility, creating spaces that invite us to reimagine our relationships with all forms of life. Her ability to capture the essence of each cat with sincerity and vibrant expression transforms her art into a joyful celebration of love, individuality, and the enduring bond between humans and animals. Kim’s journey, guided by her encounters with cats, offers a poignant reminder that even the smallest lives around us hold the power to inspire and bring happiness—a vision she shares with the world through her remarkable works.

6. LAMUNLAMAI. is more than just a craft studio—it is a philosophy, a pursuit of artistry through the tactile language of clay. Founded by Nol Netprom and Mai Nopkamon A., the duo behind LAMUNLAMAI. splits their time between Bangkok and London, bridging cultures and design sensibilities. With backgrounds in industrial design from the Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, they chose to step away from mass production and embrace the intimate, slow process of handcrafting ceramics. What started as a passion for creating one-of-a-kind tableware and decorative objects has grown into an artistic journey that continues to evolve. Every piece is shaped by hand, imbued with individuality, and showcased in exhibitions both locally and internationally.

At the heart of LAMUNLAMAI. is a commitment to material experimentation, mindful processes, and sustainable craftsmanship. Their creations go beyond function—they seek to instill meaning into everyday objects, fostering a deeper connection between people and the things they use. From self-curated collections to bespoke commissions, they collaborate with galleries, design boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, interior designers, and value-driven businesses to develop exclusive pieces and conceptual exhibitions.

The year 2024 marked a pivotal moment for LAMUNLAMAI. After pursuing their master’s degrees in London, the duo took their craft to an international stage. Nol graduated with First-Class Honors from Designer Maker, University of the Arts London, while Mai earned her MA in Creative and Cultural Entrepreneurship from Goldsmiths, University of London. This experience ignited a bold expansion—transforming LAMUNLAMAI. from a local studio into a global creative entity, all while deepening their commitment to sustainability. 

As LAMUNLAMAI. celebrates its 10th anniversary, they unveil their first solo exhibition, “Pots of Purpose”—a collection that reflects the studio’s evolution through clay. Each piece carries a story, a purpose, and the essence of craftsmanship honed over time. To LAMUNLAMAI., ceramics are not just functional art. They are records of a journey, capturing both triumphs and failures, the relentless pursuit of purpose, and the beauty of an ever-unfolding creative process.

7. Lee Taxoo The exhibition of Lee Taxoo’s works seeks to showcase the intersection of tradition and innovation within contemporary ceramic art. By blending modern techniques with traditional craft, Lee’s pieces explore cultural narratives and the evolving role of ceramics in both everyday life and artistic expression. 

The goal of this exhibition is to demonstrate how ceramics, as a medium, can serve as both a practical object and a form of artistic communication. Visitors will be encouraged to engage with the fusion of functionality and artistry, understanding how these pieces challenge the boundaries of craft and contemporary art. The exhibition will foster an appreciation for craftsmanship while promoting dialogue about the cultural significance of ceramics in modern art.

Lee Taxoo’s work, with its intricate details and craftsmanship, requires a space that allows for functional aesthetics and interactive viewing. The exhibition space should provide well-lit display areas that highlight the texture and precision of the ceramics, with some works displayed in close proximity to encourage interaction and exploration. The environment should facilitate a conversation between the work and the space, with clean, modern lines that do not detract from the craftsmanship. A combination of open, airy areas and smaller, more intimate corners for detailed viewing would complement the diverse nature of Lee’s pieces. Additionally, having enough space for functional artworks to be interacted with (like utensils or installation pieces) would add another layer to the audience’s experience.

8. Manwook explores the relationship between humans and non-human species, expressing various beings through the theme of "[Dog-Human-Machine]" in her work. These entities are pronounced the same in Korean but carry different meanings. Manwook emphasizes that these differences represent diversity rather than discrimination and argues that to achieve true coexistence, we must see the world from the perspective of non-human species.

In her work, machines are depicted as companions in the system of life recording, not as cold mechanisms, but as warm beings. Manwook redefines human identity through a new language that communicates with these machines and dogs, coexisting alongside them in a new world as a genderless human within the network.

Manwook's exhibitions have been actively held through various solo and group exhibitions, including "Protected Area for Weeds" at Gallery Meme in 2024 and "Comebackkkhyo(: Show)" at Gallery Colorbit. Notably, her exhibitions "Rule of No Rule" at PBG The Hyundai Seoul in 2023 and "Dog That One, System of Three Worlds (ː) " at Gallery Daon in 2022 are considered representative of his artistic world.

Manwook has also expanded his artistic capabilities by participating in several residency programs. Her experience in the 1st term of the VITC Art Museum Residency in 2020 and the 3rd term of the Osan Cultural Foundation Residency in 2016 has added depth to her work. In addition, Manwook continues to develop her artistic world through various group exhibitions and independent publications, focusing on visually exploring and transforming the relationship with non-human species.

9. Ohana Born in 2002, Ohana has embarked on journeys to various countries, sharing snippets of daily life along the way. Through these travels, she has encountered diverse landscapes and cultures, drawing inspiration from the subtle wit and unique charm found in them. Each new place, person, and emotion captured in [his/her/their] work depicts the vibrant and multifaceted beauty of life.

Every trip brings fresh stories and inspirations, which she reimagines into artistic expressions. The works are infused with wit and humor, designed to bring warmth and joy to viewers, sharing the colorful emotions and free-spirited touches of the moment. The goal is to convey how precious and beautiful our everyday lives are, with an emphasis on not missing any moment and sharing the feelings and messages drawn from it.

Paintings that feel comfortable and free are intended to bring a sense of comfort to any space. They are not just decorations; they make the space warmer and more inviting. The characteristics of the work express inner freedom and relaxation through unique colors and forms derived from various cultures and experiences. The work employs a variety of materials and techniques, such as collages or plywood sculptures, to create pieces that transcend the boundaries of traditional canvases. We aim to emphasize their unique presence by weaving together the appearance, shape, and texture of materials. This approach provides an experience where different cultures and stories are visually connected.

10. Palim (Witchuta Limpanwat) is both an illustrator and a cactus gardener, balancing her time between painting and nurturing plants. Her artistic world is shaped by acrylic and oil on canvas, where she weaves soft, earthy tones that invite the eye to linger and the mind to wander. Her inspiration comes from the ordinary yet intimate—the fleeting moments of daily life, the quiet stories that unfold around her. Each brushstroke carries an emotional imprint, turning simple scenes into poetic reflections. 

11. Ponoree or Sirichai Noree (born 1996) is a Thai artist who grew up in the countryside with a simple lifestyle. He loves playing games and is also passionate about drawing cartoons through simple lines. With a strong dream, he decided to head to the capital to study art seriously and seek opportunities to create works. 

Ponoree graduated from the Faculty of Painting, Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University. His artistic path is full of learning and development. Until in 2024, he had the opportunity to join the group exhibition "Life-Relationship" and was one of the artists participating in Bangkok Illustration Fair 2024.

He created works without reason, leading to freedom of thought and feeling. Everything that has passed through his life, not only events have occurred and disappeared, but have been molded into images that reflect himself, revealing traces of experiences that have been transformed and imagination through personal attitudes that are unregulated, unconscious and uninhibited, creating phenomena in himself.

12. Sandier is a charming pink character brought to life by Sittichai Yodchompoo (Mon), an illustrator and character designer who graduated from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Bangkok University. His love for illustration and character design stems from his lifelong passion for cartoons, which has been a constant source of inspiration since childhood.

The inspiration behind Sandier comes from a simple yet nostalgic memory—children playing in sand piles at home. This playful imagery led to the idea of incorporating a sandy, dust-like texture into the character’s design, making it visually distinctive. More than just a creation, Sandier serves as a reflection of the artist, capturing his emotions and experiences and expressing them through vibrant and heartwarming illustrations that are easy to understand and bring joy to both the artist and the audience.

Every time Sandier is drawn, it brings a sense of happiness, which naturally translates into the artwork, making it lively and engaging. The character’s journey is never-ending—constantly evolving, collecting stories along the way, and sharing them with the world through art. In the past year, Sandier had the incredible opportunity to embark on a nationwide adventure, bringing joy to people across 39 Central shopping mall branches throughout Thailand. Along the way, Sandier met new friends and successfully completed exciting missions assigned by Central. This grand-scale project significantly increased Sandier's recognition, making the character more well-known than ever.

With a spirit of endless exploration and storytelling, Sandier continues to move forward—spreading smiles, sharing new narratives, and inspiring people through art. 

13. Shunita The core of my artistic practice lies in exploring the power of the invisible. We experience the world through intangible elements such as emotions, memories and relationships yet their lack of physical form often leads us to overlook their significance. 

In 2018 a single moment fundamentally shifted the direction of my work. During a journey in Tibet I witnessed a person praying with their entire being expressing their inner convictions through a profound act of devotion Their belief in something unseen offering both body and mind to it was not just an act of faith but a way of engaging with an existence or force beyond the physical world This experience opened my eyes to the profound nature of the unseen and led me to delve deeper into the concept of the inner world It was from this point that the figure of Muumyung (無名) and his universe became central to my artistic exploration

14. Um Jae Won Recollections of the past, fragmented and reimagined, converge in my work as a reflection of the ever-shifting layers of memory.

Much like the surrealists of the early 20th century, who were profoundly influenced by psychoanalysis and the exploration of the unconscious, I delve into the mental images of our society a century later. My practice reconstructs these impressions into divisive and fragmented forms, creating sensory impressions that challenge and expand our perception of reality. 

These fragmented shapes are not mere abstractions but reflections of the world we encounter through media, embodying both the remnants of the past and the complexities of the present. By piecing together these disjointed images, I aim to evoke a dialogue about the cultural and social narratives embedded within them, highlighting the ways in which collective memory and media influence shape our understanding of the world.

In essence, my work serves as a mirror to our fragmented reality—both a reconstruction and a reinterpretation of the impressions that define our existence. Through this process, I invite viewers to question, reflect, and engage with the blurred boundaries between memory, society, and self.

15. Yoo Jae Youn is an artist who seamlessly blends painting and ceramics to create unique pop art narratives. Her most notable character, "Kimsee," serves as the focal point of her artistic exploration, embodying both universality and ambiguity. The name "Kimsee" is a play on the common Korean surname "Kim" and the act of "seeing," reflecting Yoo's intention to capture the essence of ordinary people and their everyday experiences. Through her work, Yoo aims to evoke a sense of familiarity and introspection, inviting viewers to connect with the character on a personal level.

Yoo's work draws inspiration from pop art icons, yet she carves out her own distinct path by infusing her pieces with a playful yet profound commentary on contemporary life. Her "Kimsee" character is designed to be both recognizable and enigmatic, representing the everyday person while also challenging the viewer's perception. This duality is reflected in Kimsee's ambiguous expressions and universal appeal, making the character relatable to a wide audience. Yoo's art captures the nuanced emotions of modern life, offering a mirror to the viewer's own experiences.

Yoo's artistic journey has seen her works exhibited across various prestigious venues. She earned her master's degree in ceramics from Chung-Ang University in 2007, following a bachelor's degree in the same field. Her solo exhibitions include the 2024 showcase at 608 Gallery in Yangpyeong and a 2022 exhibition at MGFS100 Gallery in Seoul. She has also participated in numerous group exhibitions and art fairs, such as ART BUSAN 2022 and the Affordable Art Fair in Hong Kong and Singapore. Her achievements include winning the Korea Craft and Design Foundation Chairman's Award at the 2018 Craft Trend Fair.

Yoo Jae Youn's work, with its mix of pop culture references and deeply personal insights, continues to resonate with audiences, offering a fresh perspective on the ordinary and the extraordinary in everyday life.

Join us on a journey into a boundless world of art at the "ARK-T" exhibition.

Step into this creative realm, where imagination knows no borders—free admission from 29 March 29 - 20 April 2025, at RCB Galleria 3, 2nd floor, River City Bangkok.