Chinese authorities have intensified pressure on Thai officials to remove critical works from an art exhibition in Bangkok, prompting a museum curator to flee the country. The ‘Constellation of Complicity’ exhibition, held at the Bangkok Art and Culture Center, initially showcased installations addressing Tibet and Uygh, issues.
Following its July debut, flags representing these regions were removed, leading to the curator’s decision to seek safety in London. The museum’s directors stated that both Chinese and Thai officials pressured them to remove the names of artists whose works criticized China. This incident highlights the increasing sensitivity of cultural expressions in the region, particularly regarding historical and political issues.
Artists and cultural institutions often face scrutiny for their work, especially when it touches on national sentiments or geopolitical tensions. This case underscores the complex interplay between art, politics, and international relations in Southeast Asia. The curator’s flight to London indicates the perceived risk of repercussions for engaging in such critical discourse.