Samatcha Apaisuwan has a rare gift for storytelling photography. His photos always go far beyond recording what happened - they profoundly convey the emotion, spirit, and essence of people and places. Through the lens of this photographer whose passion for diverse cultures and ways of life is borderless, audiences are transported to different locales, where they meet various faces, cityscapes, and stories behind the scenes.
Myanmar: The Years Before is the only photo exhibition at Mango Art Festival 2025, Thailand's most comprehensive art event. On display are photos taken by Samatcha during his trips to Myanmar between 2017 and 2019 (his most recent visits to the country). This exhibition promises to immerse visitors in the atmosphere and ways of life in Myanmar during the period. Not only does it showcase Myanmar's beauty and diversity, but it also nudges visitors to reflect on the changes that have since swept across this land of faith.
"I admire the industriousness of Myanmar people, their thirst for knowledge, and their love for reading. No matter where I visited, I saw people engrossed in books there. Myanmar cities also retained their original charm. Deeply impressed by many aspects of Yangon, I hope viewers can feel the unique allure of Myanmar as I did. Especially now, after hearing the news of what has happened to a country I've come to love, I feel compelled to help in whatever way I can," Samatcha says.
His booth at the art festival has three zones: the photo exhibition zone showing Myanmar in memory, the zone selling his photographs, and the zone selling souvenir postcards. A portion of the proceeds from photograph and postcard sales will be used to assist Myanmar people affected by earthquakes and political turmoil offering collectors and art enthusiasts an opportunity to join efforts to help those in need.
"Myanmar: The Years Before" is not just a photography exhibition but also a learning and reflective space for all of us to contemplate on the world we live in, as well as the stories behind the lens. Visitors will also receive the opportunity to talk to the talented artist and buy his works. Held as a part of Mango Art Festival 2025, the exhibition will run from 7 to 11 May 2025, on the 2nd floor, Art & Design Lane, Booth P5, at River City Bangkok. Admission is free. Follow for updates at:
- FB: https://www.facebook.com/samatchaphoto
- Website: samatchaapaisuwan.com
- IG: samatchaphoto
