Phenomena & Prophecies

Manit Sriwanichpoom's photographs deal with themes of consumerism and other Thai social and political issues through his strategies of critical documentation, as well as staged satirical compositions of the state of Thai society today. The myriad appearances or phenomena that his works conjure, reflect the artist's belief in the power of brutal truths, which surfaces at times in the form of painful prophecies. They also highlight his peculiar artistic role as one that treads on the thin line between merely recording and purposefully composing history, at a time where even historical narratives are not exempt from mass media constructions.

Manit has exhibited prolifically around the world, including presentations at the 6th Asia Pacific Triennial (2010), the 6th Gwangju Biennale (2006), the 1" Pocheon Asian - Art Festival (2005) and the 50th Venice Biennale (2003). More than 100 photographs from his vast oeuvre are featured in Phenomena and Prophecies. The exhibition is guest-curated by curator Ark Fongsmut and is co-organised by the Singapore Art Museum and the Singapore International Photography Festival for the 2nd Singapore International Photography Festival 2010.