Generali Group has opened the doors of Procuratie Vecchie, a 500-year-old Renaissance masterpiece and a prominent landmark in Venice restored by Generali Group on behalf of the Human Safety Net Foundation, to welcome the organizing committee of the Bangkok Art Biennale Foundation. This event marks the debut of ‘The Spirits of Maritime Crossing,’ a collateral event of the 60th International Art Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia, featuring works from 15 renowned artists from ASEAN on the global stage.

The event was honored by the presence of Ms. Alexia Boro, Head of the Home of the Human Safety Net, who warmly welcomed Mr.Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi, Founder and Chairman of the Bangkok Art Biennale Foundation, along with Prof. Dr. Apinan Poshyananda, Curator of ‘The Spirits of Maritime Crossing,’ as well as representatives of Thai artists who showcased their works at the exhibition. The event also featured the premiere of a new short film starring world-renowned artist Marina Abramović, a Golden Lion Award Winner.

Ms. Chorfa Yuktanun, Chief Marketing & Customer Officer of Generali Thailand, said, “Generali, as a global insurance brand with a long history rooted in Italy, operates in many countries around the world, including Thailand. Many Thais connect with Italy through its diverse art forms, influencing the integration of concepts and fostering creativity across various fields, including art, culture, architecture, design, and even cuisine. At this event, Generali Thailand is honored to serve as one of the sponsors, showcasing the exceptional artworks by Thai and Southeast Asian artists on the global stage in Italy. These works reflect the rich tapestry of our culture, history, and diverse way of life in the region. We hope visitors to Venice will be captivated by the cultural hybrids that emerge from the beautiful blending of differences at this event.”

“The Spirits of Maritime Crossing” showcases contemporary art that narrates the 10,000-kilometer relationship between Bangkok and Venice. Through 40 artworks, the exhibition presents narratives of migration, diaspora, and maritime colonization using paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and video installations. These works convey diverse perspectives by 15 Thai and Southeast Asian artists, including: Marina Abramović (Serbia/US), Pichet Klunchun (Thailand), Priyageetha Dia (Singapore), Chitti Kasemkitvatana (Thailand), Nakrob Moonmanas (Thailand), Jompet Kuswidananto (Indonesia), Bounpaul Phothyzan (Laos PDR), Alwin Reamillo (The Philippines), Khvay Samnang (Cambodia), Moe Satt (Myanmar/ Netherlands), Jakkai Siributr (Thailand), Truong Cong Tung (Vietnam), Natee Utarit (Thailand), Kawita Vatanajyankur (Thailand), and Yee I-Lann (Malaysia/Italy). The exhibition will be held at Palazzo Smith Mangilli Valmarana in Venice, Italy, until 24 November 2024.

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