Representation of the Abnormality
Learn more about Thai beliefs and society through The Four Assemblies by Anupong Chantorn
The Four Assemblies (2005) by Anupong ChantornArt Centre Silpakorn University
The Four Assemblies by Anupong Chantorn, recipient of the Silver Medal Award (Painting) at the 51st National Exhibition of Art in 2005, was inspired by social issues and Buddhist philosophy.
The artist presents representations of the abnormalities and fragility within the human mind through images of monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen, together with symbols that embody sin, desire, and the afterlife.
Executed in acrylic on canvas, the work combines delicate lines with diverse materials such as fabric, government documents, and newspaper clippings. This fusion creates new dimensions of storytelling and provokes questions about perceived truths.
A striking feature of the painting is the depiction of distorted human forms, reducing realism and emphasising symbolic expression while inviting viewers to interpret through their own experiences, thoughts, and emotions.
The image of a monk with enlarged ears and a mouth the size of a pinhole, alongside a female nude figure veiled in fabric, reflects the conflict between inner desires and religious prohibitions.
A female ascetic in white robes, with an elongated neck, charred skin, and unruly gestures, is juxtaposed with the image of a crow, a symbol of cunning and misfortune, linking to beliefs about the preta realm, reminding humans of karma and the afterlife.
Costumes adorned with insignia, ornamental bangles, and collaged backdrops of official documents reflect desire, corruption, and greed embedded in society.
The composition unsettles the viewer, prompting awareness, critical reflection, and moral questioning of both religion and society. It also marks a turning point in contemporary Thai art for daring to openly critique religion.
The prominent figures of monks and crows became a distinctive signature that Anupong repeatedly employed in later works, such as Perceptless, which won the Gold Medal at the 53rd National Exhibition of Art in 2007.
Check out more arts from Thailand at Thailand Art Up Close
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.