In July 2023 Bangkok-based American photographer Ben Robinson was an artist-in-residence at Studio 88. Here he told us a bit about his experience and what what he found most useful.
The first thing to be said about Studio 88 artist residency is that it is beautiful! The grounds and surrounding landscapes are breathtaking. The natural beauty of this pristine and vibrant area was invigorating. In addition, the quiet, rural area was conducive for focusing on my project (a four meter long cloth containing natural dying, eco printing, and cyanotype photograms).
Aom organised workshops for me with several local artists/craftsmen in the area. They taught me some different natural and sustainable artistic practices, which I then used to create my piece. I admire their connection to the land and their dedication to craft. I drew inspiration from my interactions with them and from the Doi Saket scenery. Hints of the knowledge they passed onto me are present in the piece.
Due to our increasingly digital world, I wanted to work with my hands. I think there comes a certain kind of peace that comes from repetitive physical action. This piece forced me to slow down and enjoy the process.
The space at Studio 88 allowed me to work at a scale that wasn’t previously possible for me. While some materials were difficult to procure in the small village, Aom helped me find what I needed. Because of the scale and experimental nature of my project, Sak even fabricated some custom tools for me to use. Without their help, I would not have been able to complete my vision.
I will be creating photograph/photogram portraits of those who taught me, which will be displayed in conjunction with the fabric piece I made during the residency. I plan on using what I learned to inform my artistic practice and my teaching moving forward. I was also able to gather some source image material for another separate project that I am working on.
All of this is to say that my time at Studio 88 was extremely fruitful and educational. I am grateful to Aom and everyone else who made my stay such an incredible experience.
Studio 88 Artist Residency 