Montien Boonma

Place: Bangkok

Born: 1953

Death: 2003

Biography:

Montien Boonma was a Thai artist born in Bangkok in 1953. He is known for his installation and performance works, which have made him one of the most renowned artists in the Asian region. As a co-founder of the Chiang Mai Social Installation, an art project and festival series that brought arts out of traditional and commercial venues and into the streets and non-traditional venues of Chiang Mai, Thailand, Boonma played a significant role in shaping the country's contemporary art scene.

Early Life and Career

Boonma's artistic career was marked by his experimentation with various mediums and techniques. His works were often live or ephemeral in nature, and he never gave them market value. This approach to art was reflective of his desire to challenge traditional notions of art and its relationship with the viewer. As a result, Boonma's installations and performances were highly acclaimed for their innovative and thought-provoking nature.

Notable Works and Collaborations

Boonma's collaborations with other artists and institutions have been an important aspect of his career. His work with the National Gallery Singapore has resulted in a significant collection of his pieces, which are now part of the museum's permanent collection. The gallery's efforts to promote Southeast Asian art have provided a platform for Boonma's work to be showcased alongside other notable artists from the region. Some of Boonma's notable works include his installation and performance pieces that explore themes of identity, culture, and social commentary. His use of aluminium and gold leaf in his artworks adds a unique texture and visual appeal to his pieces. For more information on Boonma's artwork, visit the Wikioo.org page dedicated to his work.

Legacy and Impact

Boonma's legacy as a pioneer of Thai installation art is undeniable. His contributions to the country's contemporary art scene have paved the way for future generations of artists to experiment with new mediums and techniques. The Chiang Mai Social Installation, which he co-founded, continues to be an important platform for showcasing innovative and thought-provoking art.

• Boonma's use of non-traditional venues for his installations and performances has inspired other artists to experiment with new spaces and mediums.
• His emphasis on the ephemeral nature of art has challenged traditional notions of art as a permanent and tangible object.
• Boonma's collaborations with other artists and institutions have helped to promote Southeast Asian art and provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work.

For more information on Boonma's artwork and the Chiang Mai Social Installation, visit the Wikioo.org page dedicated to his work. The National Gallery Singapore also has a collection of Boonma's pieces, which can be viewed on their website.