'KAWS:HOLIDAY' Makes Its Way to Thailand for 13th Global Stop
Taking place at Bangkok’s historic Sanam Luang.
UPDATE: KAWS:HOLIDAY THAILAND is set to transform the historic grounds of Bangkok’s Sanam Luang this May. The upcoming stop will feature an 18-meter “COMPANION” seated on the Earth with the Moon in its hand and a smaller “COMPANION” resting on its lap. KAWS’ work represents the “the passing of knowledge, values, and care across generations, highlighting the enduring connections between past, present, and future.”
Sanam Luang is a site of cultural traditions historically known as Thung Phra Meru, or the Royal Cremation Ground. Located next to the Grand Palace, it is rooted in the ancient Mandala belief system and symbolizes a place where “celestial forces and earthly realms converge.” A press release reads, “Within this storied landscape, KAWS:HOLIDAY THAILAND offers more than an art installation—it is an invitation to slow down, immerse in the surroundings, and experience a moment of tranquillity.”
KAWS:HOLIDAY THAILAND runs from May 13 to May 25, and will be open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Sanam Luang
QF4V+88R, Ratchadamnoen Klang Road,
Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon
Bangkok, Thailand
KAWS:HOLIDAY is bringing its world-renowned contemporary art experience to Thailand, marking its 13th stop on a global tour that has spanned from Seoul to outer space. The large-scale installation, created by artist Brian Donnelly aka KAWS in collaboration with AllRightsReserved (ARR), will be on display from May 13 to 25, with the exact location to be revealed soon.
Following recent appearances in Le Brassus, Switzerland and Indonesia’s Prambanan temple complex, this latest stop is expected to merge modern artistry with Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. The installation, presented in partnership with Central Embassy, continues KAWS’s mission to create immersive experiences that encourage viewers to pause, reflect and engage with art in unconventional settings.
True to its signature theme, the sculpture will depict KAWS’s Companion character in a contemplative pose, inviting visitors to take a moment for introspection. Since its debut in 2018, KAWS:HOLIDAY has left an artistic imprint on major cities including Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore and Melbourne, as well as more remote destinations like Changbai Mountain in China.
With Thailand’s deep-rooted traditions and dynamic art scene, the latest installment of KAWS:HOLIDAY promises to blend seamlessly with the country’s cultural landscape, offering a fresh perspective on the intersection of contemporary art and heritage.
Barom “Tay” Bhicharnchitr, Managing Director of Central Embassy and local partner of the project, shared, “Over the past decade, Central Embassy has been dedicated to showcasing world-class works in Thailand. We take pride in being a landmark for art, fashion, and lifestyle in the heart of the city, drawing creators and travelers from around the world. This time, Central Embassy is honored to be the local partner and collaborate with KAWS, AllRightsReserved, with the support of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, as well as all local supporters, to present KAWS:HOLIDAY THAILAND for the first time in Thailand.”
