Sutee Kunavichayanont

For TRACE Sutee Kunavichayanont installed two large inflatable animals in Bluecoat Arts Centre. Made out of rubber latex, the figures were relatively lifelike, without having the cartoon-like quality of most inflatables. Instead, the sagging forms of the deflated animals are reminiscent of hides one might find in an abattoir.

The animals he creates are chosen because they are emblematic of Thailand: the tiger, the elephant, and the buffalo. These are also endangered species, and signal the artist’s concern with the effects of rapid industrialisation and urban development in Thailand. The objects – entitled Depletion-Inflation – can be inflated through tubes by visitors to the exhibition, so that the breath of the human viewer brings the animal to life.

This can be read as a comment on our tendency to displace nature then attempt to sustain life artificially. The inflation and subsequent deflation of the animals is also an intentional pun on the Asian economic tigers that have so dangerously sagged in the late 1990’s. As they deflate the figures gradually slump, becoming tragic and pathetic sacks of skin. The interactive quality of the works makes for enthusiastic audience participation, and literally breathes life into art.

The Myth from the Rice Field (Breath Donation), 1998
Latex rubber, air balloon, hose
Collection of the artists
Exhibited at Bluecoats Arts Centre

The White Elephant, 1999
Silicone, air balloon, hose
Collection of the artist
Exhibited at Bluecoats Arts Centre