On 24 August 2026, MATDOT Art Center welcomed artists, curators, collectors, lecturers, students and art enthusiasts for the opening reception of two solo exhibitions: The World Askew by Thienchai Nogngam and ฟรรฅ by Michael Shaowanasai.

Working between Surrealism and representational painting, Thienchai employs vivid colours and compelling compositions to reveal darker undercurrents of irony and social critique. Beneath their playful, fantastical surfaces, the works in The World Askew reflect on the contradictions of contemporary society, while raising philosophical questions about human existence and the elusive nature of truth.

In ฟรรฅ, Michael turns towards the ordinary and familiar, drawing upon language, photography, food, belief and cultural symbols. By subtly displacing these elements from their expected meanings, he creates situations in which the boundaries between reality and artifice, sacred and mundane, and sincerity and performance become increasingly uncertain.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Chatvichai Promadhattavedi, Deputy Chairperson of the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre Foundation Committee. A longstanding figure in Thailand’s art scene and familiar with both artists’ practices, Chatvichai praised their distinctive creativity. Thienchai and Michael then shared reflections on their works and expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the exhibitions.

Following the ceremony, Michael extended ฟรรฅ through two performances. One invited a guest to participate inside Blacklist Gallery, while another transformed Thai-style hospitality into a shared experience as the artist prepared rice with Thai omelette for guests.

Conversations continued throughout the evening, bringing artists and audiences together in a lively exchange of ideas, experiences and creative perspectives. MATDOT thanks everyone who joined us for this memorable evening.