The Food of Pagpda

2022, fabric, cotton, thread, cecment, raw rice

During a two-week residency in Bangkok, Thailand, an observation was made regarding the widespread use of forks and spoons, even for dry stir-fried noodles, which contrasted with the common use of chopsticks in Thai restaurants worldwide. This sparked an interest in exploring cultural customs and perceptions, particularly the question of why Thailand, despite never being colonized, adopted utensils that seemed out of place with its local cuisine. This inquiry led to a deeper examination of Thailand’s post-colonial influences and the reasons behind the king’s embrace of Westernized habits, revealing how imperialist history continues to shape everyday life.

Inspired by the architectural symbol of the pagoda—a tiered tower commonly found in Asian countries with religious significance—the creative journey began to incorporate rice, a staple of East Asian culture, into the narrative. Pagodas, historically sacred spaces housing Buddhist or Taoist artifacts and scriptures, have played an integral role in the spiritual life of their communities.

In the final artwork, the significance of rice is highlighted as a fundamental element shaping the landscape, economy, and people of East Asian nations. By playfully juxtaposing rice with Thailand’s religious and historical context, the artwork reflects on cultural identity and the lasting influence of tradition in a rapidly changing world.