Image size: 360 x 500 cm
Much of Thai artist's Pratchaya Phinthong's conceptually-driven practice is premised on collaborative processes, modes of exchange and the transference of artistic agency that redefine the value and significance of art. Pratchaya's work translates his research, be they scientific discoveries, economic theories or even rumours, into experiential forms and gestures. Algahest is based on the artist's research on the planet Kepler 22B, a recent discovery in 2011 by NASA's Kepler Space Telescope of a planet located some 600 light years from Earth. Little is known about this planet, although scientific propositions have put forth the possibility the planet as a potential habitat for future human civilisations, with the discovery of water, suitable for the sustainability of life forms. NASA's rendition of Kepler 22B resembles much of Earth. Pratchaya's work translates this reality into a tangible representation through a movable window of a landscape of sand, air and water - elements necessary for all forms of life - slowly constituting itself into a possible future for humanity.
