Paradox in arts

SCOTTISH ARTIST Richard Skene explores capitalism and religion in his debut Bangkok exhibition opening on Tuesday at Eat Me Restaurant and Gallery.
In addition to having a Thai flavour, a common theme of Skene’s collection is the “pursuit of happiness”, which is one of the three “unalienable rights” in the United States of America’s Declaration of Independence and a key principle of Buddhism.
That such superficially conflicting forces of capitalism and religion share the same destination suggests the path to happiness may not be straightforward, and short cuts may be counterproductive.
For example: while Thailand is a welcoming, tolerant and spiritual place, Bangkok provides abundant opportunities for hedonism although contrary but complementary forces co-exist in the vast city. Those who deviate from the true path may, after a period of trial and error, reach the same conclusion as William Blake, who coined the phrase from which the exhibition takes its name.
Skene’s art deals with a variety of diverse and conflicting subjects, including peace and violence, love and sex and hope and fear and takes the viewer on a visual journey from hedonism to Buddhism in Bangkok.
The result is a stimulating and provocative collection, comprising graphic design, photography, video and light installations. The artworks are simplified and stylised, incorporate wit and wisdom, and reveal influences from Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst and Roy Lichtenstein.
Skene, who was born in Aberdeen, has lived in Bangkok for eight years.
“I first came to Thailand as a backpacker in 1990 and returned to work in Bangkok in 1995. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working in Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui, so have a close affinity with Thailand and a great respect for Thai culture. As many of the artworks were inspired by my observations and experiences of living in the Kingdom, it’s appropriate that my first exhibition takes place in Bangkok.
“I am delighted that Eat Me agreed to sponsor my exhibition as I believe the restaurant’s contemporary style and funky character complements my collection,” says the artist.
Situated between the infamous Patpong red light district and religious centre Christ Church, Eat Me Restaurant and Gallery offers a unique location, which coincidentally and respectively represents both the “Road of Excess” and “Palace of Wisdom".

The Road of Excess leads to the Palace of Wisdom is on view from Tuesday till August 30.
Eat Me Restaurant & Gallery is off Soi Convent on Silom Road. It is open daily from 3pm till 1am. Call (02) 238 0931.
More about the artist at www.RichardSkene.com