Le Mémento: An Art Exhibition Weaving the Story of Death into Carpet Patterns

“…For many, cemeteries may evoke feelings of sadness or melancholy, with images of loved ones now breathless and joyless. However, Patipat Chaiwitesh sees death, cemeteries, and graves in a different light, suggesting they might not always be something negative…”

“I wanted to talk about death because these graves do not bury just one person, they are like family halls. When someone dies, they come to rest here, and descendants will gather here. We wanted to convey the idea of a journey that represents both a beginning and an end, even though we call it a cemetery." With this perspective, Patipat chooses to organise this solo exhibition 'Le Mémento' to express the hidden beauty within sorrow.

For those who are not familiar with the design community, the name Patipat Chaiwitesh might not be widely recognised. Nevertheless, Patipat is an award-winning artist (Grand Prize Winner 2012, Designer of the Year Award 2019, De Mark 2021) who creates conceptual art through a process akin to research-based practices. This method involves gathering data and transforming materials to offer new perspectives and meanings to objects and spaces.

Patipat's work has been exhibited both domestically and internationally numerous times. Notable exhibitions include 'Art Capital 2015' at the Grand Palais in Paris, France, his first solo exhibition 'Les Outils' at Soy Sauce Factory in Bangkok in 2016, participation in 'Beyond Bliss' at the Bangkok Art Biennale in 2018, and inclusion in the group exhibition 'Out of Place' at KF Gallery, Korean Foundation in Seoul, South Korea, also in 2018. Additionally, Patipat currently holds the position of head of the design department at the College of Design, Rangsit University, and Art Director of #Legend_th.

The solo exhibition "Le Mémento" began from the artist's personal impression of Père-Lachaise Cemetery. The unique lines, colours, shapes, and architecture of this famous Parisian cemetery served as inspiration. The various family graves at Père-Lachaise, where deceased family members are often buried together, conveyed a sense of continuity and reunion. Through Patipat's perspective, Père-Lachaise is not just a gateway to the afterlife, but also a 'home,' where family members ultimately come together once more. This interpretation inspired the creation of "Le Mémento," showcasing the beauty and profundity found within the themes of death and reunion.

Patipat skillfully translated the profound memories of Père-Lachaise into contemporary tapestry patterns, meticulously handwoven to convey his artistic journey. His expertise in textile arts began during his studies at École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in France, where he developed a deep passion for weaving. This passion evolved into his renowned conceptual textile artworks, which continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Within the solo exhibition "Le Mémento," alongside the immersive installation art that translates the intricacies of weaving cemetery patterns onto handwoven textiles, there are also archives depicting the creative process and data collection from the very first step. These elements are meticulously curated within the exhibition space, allowing participants to immerse themselves, experience, and engage closely as if walking through a genuine memorial space reminiscent of Père-Lachaise Cemetery.

The "Le Mémento" exhibition by Patipat Chaiwitesh also had the honour of being inaugurated by Mr. Thierry BAYLE, the Cultural Attaché representing the French Embassy in Thailand. This special occasion was marked by an exquisite opening ceremony, inviting interested individuals to attend and admire the artworks from June 23 to July 28, 2024, on the 1st floor of Joyman Gallery.

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