‘People Say Nothing Is Impossible, but Beuys Does Nothing Everyday’ at Frieze London
By Ian Tee

Midpoint is a monthly series that invites established Southeast Asian contemporary artists to take stock of their career thus far, reflect upon generational shifts and consider the advantages and challenges of working in the present day. It is part of A&M Dialogues and builds upon the popular Fresh Faces series.

This month’s guest is Wantanee Siripattananuntakul. Born in 1974 in Bangkok, she is part of a generation of artists who worked amidst the turbulent economic and political situation following the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis. Wantanee’s practice responds to the social and cultural conditions of living in Thailand, offering a critical voice to issues such as economic inequality, arts funding, homeownership. Wantanee’s works have been presented at major international exhibitions, such as the Tokyo Biennale (2023), Bangkok Art Biennale (2022), Khoenkaen Manifesto (2018) and the 53rd Venice Biennale (2009), among others.

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘(dis) continuity’, 2012, moving sign display, video projection on 366 t-shirts, flash light and sensors, dimensions variable. Photo by Lek Kiatsirikajorn. Image courtesy of the artist.

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘I was Beuys/ I am Beuys’ (video still), 2021, 4K video, 13:50mins. Image courtesy of the artist.

Could you share a decision and/or event (could be happenstance) that marked a significant moment in your path as an artist?

My artistic journey began with a lifelong passion for art that I have had since I was a child. What sets me apart is my deep-rooted love for asking questions and exploring themes in my art. This unique perspective emerged during my time at Silpakorn University, Bangkok, where I realised that questions can guide my creative process. While my technical skills may not match some peers, my knack for questioning has given me a distinct approach to art, delving deep into the imagination to create meaningful works.

In 2012, a personal loss, my father's passing, was a turning point. It sparked a profound emotional and philosophical awakening that led me to explore politics, economics, and existential questions through art. Simultaneously, I embarked on a journey reflecting upon life through the lens of animals. These parallel projects deepened my connection to my subjects and broadened my perspective on the world. One long-term project that stands out is the 'Beuys’ project which involved working with a African grey parrot named Beuys to uncover the primal essence of existence. These experiences have defined my artistic identity, inspiring me to ask more questions, seek new perspectives, and engage more compassionately with the world.

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘Wantanocchio’08’, 2008, resin, Thai dress and human hair, 53 x 15 x 15cm. Photo by Sakarin Krue-on. Image courtesy of the artist.

What have been milestone achievements for you as an artist, and why have they been particularly memorable?

One pivotal moment was representing Thailand at the 53rd Venice Biennale in 2009. It signified a significant step in our artistic journey, requiring us to engage with a broader international audience. These exhibitions at home and abroad have allowed me to initiate dialogues on critical social, political, and environmental issues. Additionally, my recent solo exhibition at Frieze London was a profound experience that allowed me to engage with a global art community that was highly receptive to the messages I aimed to convey.

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘The Broken Ladder’, 2018, exhibition view in Gallery VER, Bangkok. Photo by Viriya Chotpanyavisut. Image courtesy of the artist.

Could you walk us through a typical work day, or a typical week? What routine do you follow to nourish yourself/your artistic practice?

My art practice is highly adaptable and driven by the nature of the project at hand, which allows me to be free from the constraints of a rigid schedule. I am interested in exploring a wide range of themes, including politics, economics, and other parallel projects. My artistic routine evolves with each project, guided by their unique demands and inspirations. This flexibility helps me stay open to new ideas and avoid creative stagnation. My practice embodies adaptability, commitment to the creative process, and a connection to life experiences that drive my work.

I do not have a fixed daily or weekly schedule, but I remain inspired by immersing myself in new experiences, visiting galleries, and engaging with the art community. My art is rooted in my life experiences, and I often draw inspiration from them. For instance, I once borrowed money from banks to explore the economics of art production. Another project 'The Broken Ladder' (2018) challenged income inequalities in developing countries.

Wantanee working in her studio. Image courtesy of the artist.

Wantanee’s studio space. Image courtesy of the artist.

Could you describe your studio and how it has evolved over the years to become what it is today? What do you enjoy about it, and what do you wish to improve?

Over the years, my house has transformed into a dynamic studio where my artistic journey unfolds. This unique space combines the comforts of home with the necessities of my creative process. Initially, my house studio was relatively compact and cosy. It was the perfect place for nurturing early ideas and engaging in smaller-scale projects. But as my art grew and I began working on more extensive projects like 'Tax Painting' (2019-2022), I encountered spatial limitations.

Today, my house studio is a place of art and where I share my life with my African grey parrot. We have formed a unique bond, and the house studio provides an ideal setting for our daily interactions and observations. I occasionally convert a large room in the house into a video studio to capture moments and experiences with my parrot, adding another layer to my creative exploration as I delve into the complexities of human-animal relationships.

What I enjoy most about my house studio is its sense of intimacy and personal connection to my work and life. It is a place where I can seamlessly transition from daily life to the world of art. The familiar surroundings are comforting and inspirational, creating a unique synergy that fuels my creativity. However, like any workspace, there is always room for improvement. One of my aspirations for the future is to find innovative solutions to make the best use of the space I have. It may involve optimising storage, reimagining the layout, or even exploring ways to extend the studio space to cater to larger projects.

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘The “end of history” will not come tomorrow’, 2022, exhibition view at Gallery VER. Solo exhibition features ‘Tax Paintings’ from 2019 to 2022. Photo by Atelier 247. Image courtesy of the artist.

What do you think has been/is your purpose? Has your purpose remained steadfast or evolved over the years?

My purpose has evolved as an artist, reflecting the various themes and approaches shaping my artistic journey. Initially, I was driven by a deep-seated desire to explore and shed light on critical perspectives surrounding social, political, economic, and cultural issues. This driving force has remained constant throughout my career. However, as I expanded my artistic horizons, my purpose evolved in parallel. While my early work primarily focused on economic and political concerns, drawing from my life experiences to investigate societal issues, it has grown more multifaceted. My venture with Beuys led to an exploration of the histories of various creatures and a deeper understanding of my environment.

In recent years, during challenging times marked by the pandemic and political unrest, my purpose has evolved to include a keen exploration of audio and visual creations. I aim to decode unique sounds and anomalies, sharing observations on how humans, fauna, and flora respond to evolving environments and political climates and how these reactions affect our emotions and perceptions. Throughout this transformative journey, my overarching purpose as an artist has remained steadfast, to engage with critical societal issues and evoke meaningful dialogues through my art. While the specific themes and approaches have evolved, my commitment to addressing the complexities of our world through creativity has been a consistent driving force behind my work.

“Throughout this transformative journey, my overarching purpose as an artist has remained steadfast, to engage with critical societal issues and evoke meaningful dialogues through my art.”

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘People Say Nothing Is Impossible, but Beuys Does Nothing Everyday’, 2023, solo presentation at Frieze London. Image courtesy of the artist.

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘everyone is…’, 2017, HD video with sound, 4:53mins. Photo by Omer Gaash. Image courtesy of the artist.

As part of the Artist-to-Artist section at Frieze London 2023, you presented a solo exhibition ‘People Say Nothing Is Impossible, but Beuys Does Nothing Everyday’. Beuys is the name of your grey parrot, who is a partner in creating the works on show. It is also a reference to the German artist Joseph Beuys, whose ideas you engage with. Could you talk about the impetus behind this project and why you chose it for Frieze London?

‘People Say Nothing is Impossible, but Beuys Does Nothing Every Day' (2023) was a deliberate choice for Frieze London due to its unconventional nature. This unique collaboration with my parrot, Beuys, unfolds in two phases. We use Joseph Beuys' works as a framework to challenge conventional notions of art and explore human-animal relationships. Through this project, we question the human-centric perspective that assumes human dominance in the universe.

The project includes thought-provoking elements such as Beuys wearing a felt suit to collect her droppings, prompting reflection on the human role as stewards of the environment. 'Freeze TV' (2023) is presented as a video sculpture enclosed within an invisible cage, symbolising societal confines and limitations imposed by media, authoritarian control, and political constructs. This unique format encourages the audience to reflect on the power dynamics at play in media and the impact of authoritarianism on our collective consciousness.

Wantanee Siripattananuntakul, ‘The Web of Time’, 2022, video installation, 27:18min. Photo by Preecha Pattara. Image courtesy of the artist.

Are there upcoming projects you would like to share?

I am deeply committed to addressing the pressing issues of our time, especially those related to the impact of geopolitics on the environment and the wildlife trade. It is disheartening to witness the hunting and extermination of wild birds and cats for profit, as well as the commodification of elephants as political gifts, leading to an unfair distribution of opportunities and the privatisation of nature. These challenges lead to a division of public space and create new complexities for everyone involved.

I am excited to announce my participation in the 2023-2024 Thailand Biennale to explore and shed light on these issues. This prestigious event will take place in Northern Thailand, in the vicinity of Chiang Rai, near the borders of Myanmar and Laos. It will provide a significant platform for me to delve into these issues on a deeper level. Through my artistic expressions, I aim to raise awareness, encourage meaningful conversations, and inspire positive actions to address the complex challenges that our world faces. My ongoing exploration of these critical subjects underscores my commitment to using art as a medium for positive change and as a tool for evoking essential dialogues on the interconnectedness of nature, politics, and human society.

I look forward to sharing my work and engaging with audiences to collectively work towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

And finally, what would be a key piece of advice to young art practitioners? What has been your formula for success (a way of working, a certain kind of attitude etc.) that they can learn from to apply to their own careers?

As an artist, I may not consider myself a "successful" artist in the traditional sense, as I still have much to explore and create. However, throughout my journey, I have upheld a fundamental principle that is valuable advice for young artists: sincerity, belief, and an unwavering obsession with the work. When creating art, I approach it with sincerity, a deep-seated belief in the importance of what I make, and a passion for the themes and concepts that drive my work.

Success in the art world can be subjective and multifaceted, but what truly matters is the authenticity of expression. Art is a highly personal and expressive medium. Staying true to one's artistic vision and obsessively pursuing one's ideas can be a significant achievement in itself.

Regardless of where you are in your creative career, remember that dedication and authenticity will resonate with viewers, and can lead to meaningful connections and recognition over time. The art world is vast and diverse, with many paths to follow. So, keep creating from the heart, exploring new horizons, and nurturing your passion with an unyielding obsession.

In my journey, this obsession with my work has been the driving force behind my art. It has fueled my creative exploration and allowed me to immerse myself in the complexities of the themes I explore. Whether you are an artist, curator, manager, or involved in any aspect of the art world, let these principles, along with a healthy dose of obsession, guide your career. Your sincerity, authenticity, and unwavering dedication will shine through your work and impact those who engage with it.

The interview has been edited.

Access the full Midpoint series here.