How does running an art gallery differ from a general business? What’s the key to longevity?
Everything is subjective, aesthetic cannot be spelled out or ranked, like the league table in an investment banking business makes it clear where a firm stands, gauging success is not always so clear. We are probably most successful in bringing artworks across borders, which is not an easy thing to do in a low-cost, low-price-base environment like Thailand. It is not difficult to start a gallery here, but it is also not easy to maintain, and very challenging to take it international.
What are some dos and don’ts in running a gallery?
Do show the work you believe in. Don’t look at short-term monetary return, otherwise, you would be too much like a frame shop or decorative item store.
What’s the biggest difference in the Thai art scene between now and 10 years ago?
We now see Thai artists being included in all the important art events worldwide. Ten years ago, it was a really big deal to see a Thai artist at Documenta or Art Basel.
Your primary focus has always been on contemporary art. Will this continue to be the case?
Yes, dealing with living artists whose works reflect the time we are living in is very interesting for me and, I believe, for viewers and collectors. Nothing speaks to the heart better than art. And in frustrating times of political or national conflict, contemporary art helps best. We have been active in Asia and Europe. Now, we hope that in the next decade we will cover North America more.
We heard the 10th anniversary exhibition is nothing short of an artist alumni meeting?
Right, the work covers all that we have shown over the past 10 years. How are we going to display them in one exhibition space? That’s why we needed Rirkrit Tiravanija to curate the exhibition.
If 100 Tonson was as a person, how would you describe him/her?
He is international, sophisticated and friendly.
