ICONSIAM Showcases World-Class Sculpture Exhibition

ICONSIAM, the world-class landmark on the Chao Phraya River, proudly presents the sculpture exhibition “Lancang to Chao Phraya”, celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People's Republic of China. This exhibition showcases a cultural exchange between Thailand and China, featuring the special collaborative sculpture “Chubby Woman with Dragon & Naga”, the first-ever partnership between Thailand’s National Artist Professor Emeritus Preecha Thaothong and renowned Chinese sculptor Mr. Xu Huangfei. The artwork symbolizes the deep connection between the two nations, offering a full-fledged cultural exchange through art. The exhibition is open for public viewing until February 28, 2025, at River Park, ICONSIAM.

ICONSIAM has partnered with the Ministry of Culture, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Kasikorn Bank, the Guangdong International Cultural Exchange Center, the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, the Guangzhou Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, and Media, the Tianhe District, and the Guangzhou Tianhe Art Museum to celebrate and reinforce the bond between Thailand and China in this Golden Year of Friendship.

A Fusion of Thai and Chinese Art

The “Lancang to Chao Phraya” exhibition marks the first artistic collaboration between two world-class master artists:

• Mr. Xu Huangfei, an internationally acclaimed Chinese artist, is known for his Chubby Woman sculptures, which symbolize happiness, humor, and optimism.

• Professor Emeritus Preecha Thaothong, Thailand’s National Artist in Visual Arts (Painting), brings Thai artistic heritage to the collaboration.

Their masterpiece, “Chubby Woman with Dragon & Naga”, portrays a plump woman embraced by a dragon and a naga, the legendary auspicious creatures from both cultures. The sculpture also incorporates cloud motifs, symbolizing luck and prosperity.

The uniqueness of this piece lies in the integration of traditional Thai artistic techniques, including:

• Lacquered engraving

• Embossed carving

• Shadow puppet-style cutouts

• Metal inlay and oxidation on copper

Inspired by the historical connection between the Lancang River (China) and the Chao Phraya River (Thailand), the artists drew upon history as proof of the familial bond between the two nations. The work symbolizes a spiritual bridge, closing the cultural gap and enhancing cross-cultural understanding.

Additional Sculptures on Display

The exhibition also features the Bronze Chubby Woman, depicted holding an umbrella and wearing a traditional Thai sarong, along with over 10 additional signature pieces displayed majestically along the Chao Phraya River at River Park, ICONSIAM.

Exhibition Details

📍 Location: River Park, ICONSIAM
🗓 Exhibition Period: Until February 28, 2025
🎟 Admission: Free