ไทย
Phuket – Mrs. Anchalee Vanich Tepabutra, President of the Phuket Art Association, announced the readiness for the upcoming Thailand Biennale Phuket 2025, an international contemporary art festival to be held from December 2025 through April 2026. The main theme, “Nirankalpa” (Eternal Time), aims to deeply connect creative works by Thai and international artists with the unique space and culture of Phuket.
Led by a team of artistic directors, curators, and the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture under the Ministry of Culture, the event will open its doors to the public, encouraging free participation in a variety of art activities. These initiatives are designed to foster understanding and promote creative power at the community level.
A key highlights this year is the debut of the event mascot, “Fufu,” a collaborative creation by Thai and international artists. Standing 1.5 meters tall, Fufu takes the form of a “Bat of Happiness,” expressing themes of Chinese belief and cultural symbolism through vibrant contemporary art.
The original design of Fufu was created by Asst. Prof. Dr. Panuwat Saengiam, lecturer in Fine Arts and Design at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Phuket Rajabhat University. The concept draws inspiration from the Chinese idea of “Wu Fu” (五福) – the Five Blessings – blended with contemporary aesthetics and the cultural identity of Phuket.
The first version of Fufu was colorfully brought to life by Dr. Kamol Tassananchalee, National Artist in Visual Arts (Painting and Mixed Media), 1997. The painting took place at Khunying Kanjananart Gallery, Ranong, under the Office of Arts and Culture, Phuket Rajabhat University. His work infused Fufu with emotion, lines, colors, and the spirit of contemporary art.
Fufu: The Bat of Happiness
The inspiration behind Fufu comes from the Chinese symbol “Wu Fu” (五福), representing the Five Blessings:
- Changshou – Long life
- Fugui – Wealth and prosperity
- Kangning – Good health and freedom from illness
- Haode – Virtuous morality
- Shanzhong – Eternal peace and harmony
In Chinese, the word for bat is “bian fu” (蝙蝠), which shares a similar pronunciation with “fu” (福), meaning good fortune. As such, bats have long been regarded as auspicious symbols in Chinese art and household items.
The Phuket Art Association is currently producing various versions of Fufu, with contributions from both national and international artists. These mascots will be showcased across key locations during Thailand Biennale Phuket 2025, offering locals and visitors alike the opportunity to experience contemporary art up close throughout the island.
