Introduction: Land of contrasts and connections

”Lanna”, the third solo by me, is another project of passion. I have always loved Thailand and exploring its symbolisms is an honour and a treat. Split into 20 parts, this show runs for a month.

THE LANNA region in northern Thailand embodies a wealth of living symbolism. Through a spontaneous nine-day journey, I captured a vibrant dialogue of interconnected identities weaving past and present together.

This is my introduction to the exhibition:

Land of contrasts and connections

LANNA, the northern Thai region that was an ancient kingdom, is shaped by contrasts—tranquillity and expression, tradition and modernity, the sacred and the secular. This exhibition explores 20 such relationships that help to define Lanna’s evolving identity. Rather than conflicting, these elements, by and large, complement each other, much like the Yin and Yang philosophy or India’s religious diversity. Buddhist meditation halls stand alongside contemporary art spaces, each enriching rather than diminishing the other. These juxtapositions are not contradictions but vital forces shaping the cultural fabric of Lanna.

Reflections across borders: I see parallels between Lanna’s dualities and my own heritage. Kuala Lumpur’s skyline blends the ultramodern Petronas Twin Towers with traditional kampungs, while Penang’s structures from colonial times frame bustling street markets. These examples highlight how cultural heritage and modern progress are not at odds but coexist, much like in Lanna; its approach to preserving heritage does not resist change but adapts to it, ensuring that tradition remains relevant. The region’s history of trade and migration has woven together diverse influences, creating a dynamic identity that continues to evolve.

Invisible Dialogues: Through symbols, other forms of representation, and narratives, this exhibition reveals the ongoing dialogue between Lanna’s traditions and its changing present. Each set of displays captures moments where old and new intersect, where local craftsmanship meets globalisation, and where cultural identity is constantly reshaped. These contrasts are not separate forces but interconnected threads, showing that cultural evolution thrives not by erasing differences but by embracing them. Lanna’s story is one of adaptation and balance, a reflection of a broader truth—identity is not static but shaped by the interplay of past and present.

For more information, click on links: Stephen Menon, O Art Space Gallery, Lim Siang Jin and his art, here and here. For a detailed acknowledgment, click here