Textures of Faith: Ganesha in Painting and Abstract Dimensions
Piya Charoenmuang | Paintings (On view 9 May - 5 July 2026)
The "Ganesha" exhibition opens with a series of paintings by Piya Charoenmuang, a visual artist renowned for his expertise in painting, mixed media, and abstract art. His works stand out for their combination of printmaking techniques, relief, and texture, which together create striking visual depth and weight. Piya's practice also exemplifies Contemporary Art with a Conscience, all while demonstrating a subtle sense of playfulness and an experimental spirit.
Behind this artistic series is a creative process driven by the artist's inner landscape, particularly during the COVID-19 lockdown. Piya had drawn Ganesha every day for three years (2021-2024). This art journey started with an exploration of the meaning of "success" through the lens of Chinese deities. However, drawing upon his roots as a Painting graduate from Silpakorn University, he ultimately chose to focus on Ganesha. Over time, the number of his Ganesha paintings eventually grew into the thousands. In a time when the outside world was fraught with uncertainty, the artist used his practice as a space to organize his thoughts and mind, seek tranquility, and anchor himself in the present moment.
The colors in each work reflect the artist's emotional state at a given moment, with the palette of some paintings turning subdued and mirroring what was in his heart.
Piya's artistic approach also deliberately leaves room for uncertainty and experimentation. "I enjoy the process of trial and error. You never know if the final piece will turn out the way you envisioned," he explains. With this attitude, he is not bound by perfectionism. For the artist, imperfection is simply an inherent part of a dynamic and ever-changing creative process.
This perspective extends beyond the artist's personal expression, engaging in a broader dialogue with the exhibition's sculpture. Together, the impressive exhibits reexamine "cracks" and "imperfections," finding beauty in them.
Beauty in Cracks: Ceramic Ganesha and Art of Healing
Yonkwan Thanyaset (Paint) | Ceramic Sculpture (On view 6 June 2026 - 5 July 2026)
From painted surfaces to sculptural form, the exhibition will expand its visual language and deepen its dialogue through a Blue & White ceramic Ganesha installation by Yonkwan Thanyaset (Paint). Inspired by traditional porcelain, this single installation will join Piya's paintings, creating a compelling interplay between the two mediums.
Hand-formed and fired at high temperatures—from 750?C for the initial bisque firing to 1250?C for glazing—the sculpture is a testament to both time and patience. The visible cracks on its surface reflect an acceptance of uncertainty in nature and life. From 9 May to 5 June, a single Ganesha sculpture will be exhibited in dialogue with Piya's works. The complete art installation will be unveiled later and remain on display from 6 June to 5 July 2026.
"This Ganesha, the largest work I've ever created, reveals the beauty in imperfection. The firing cracks are 'healed' using Kintsugi—the Japanese art of mending broken ceramics with Urushi lacquer and gold dust—transforming flaws into new value," the artist says. Set against a Blue & White surface, delicate gold floral motifs on this sculpture reflect deep acceptance and appreciation for the marks of time.
Yonkwan had been a ceramic artist for more than 10 years before switching her career path to the marketing and green energy fields. She, however, has returned to the arts to seek a balance between logic and emotion.
In this exhibition, Ganesha transcends his traditional role as merely a symbol of "success" and "obstacle remover." Instead, he reflects the profound acceptance of human imperfection, highlighting the beauty of the "cracks" that shape our true identities. The exhibits are also layered with symbolism: the Blessing Ganesha signifies obstacle-clearing; the Modak represents abundance and success; the serpent conveys power and self-mastery; while the Om symbol and crown evoke wisdom and auspiciousness.
Visitors are welcome to buy Piya's Ganesha paintings as well as exclusive exhibition merchandise on-site. "Ganesha" is more than just an art exhibition; it is a gentle invitation to rediscover the beauty in cracks, imperfections, the marks of time, and the rhythm of life. For updates, check out https://www.facebook.com/charoen43.
- Venue: 2nd floor, Things : Inspiration Space at Charoen43 Art and Eatery (Charoenkrung 43)
- Opening Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Dates: 9 May - 5 July 2026
- Getting There: BTS Saphan Taksin MRT HuaLampong (followed by a short motorcycle taxi ride). Parking is available at the CAT Tower or the Grand Postal Building (parking fees apply).
How to Worship 'Ganesha'
God of success and wisdom, Ganesha is believed to help clear his worshippers' obstacles. Tradition hold that everything will go smooth-whether new ventures or career pursuits-if you pray to this deity. Worshippers should present drinking water, fresh milk, sweet fruits, Modak in addition to lighting incense sticks / candles while devotedly chanting "Om Shri Ganeshaya Namaha."
About the Curator
Kullaya Kassakul is an art publicist and the owner of Things : Inspiration Space, where she curates special programs and exhibitions, including collaborations with the Bangkok Design Week and the Mango Art Festival.
The "Ganesha" exhibition was born from a convergence of faith, timing, and her long-standing admiration for the two featured artists. Yet, the showcase also carries a deeply poignant meaning. Following the sudden passing of a close colleague, Kullaya temporarily closed the space (formerly known as C43) for four months. Reopening demanded immense emotional and physical resilience, and was imbued with the hope of a successful restart.
