TENTACLES is a Bangkok-based art initiative founded in 2014, with members from various creative backgrounds. Starting from a small corner of exhibition space in a shophouse, and moving to their own space in 2016. They aim to provide a cross-cultural platform for experimentation and collaboration through organising various events and projects, both locally and internationally, with a particular focus on young and emerging artists who may find it difficult to gain exposure or expand their networks. Additionally, Tentacles runs an artist-in-residence programme that has welcomed artists from all over the world, from Cambodia to Argentina, looking to develop their practices and expand their networks. They also host diverse arts and crafts workshops such as acrylic painting, niche perfume, embroidery, ceramics, and much more that allow people to learn new skills and expand their creative minds.
Tentacles and members have collaborated with partner organisations and creative practitioners in Thailand and overseas to facilitate cultural and artistic exchange, including:
● Thailand – Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi
● Indonesia - Serum, Komunitas Salihara in Jakarta, Ace House Collective in Yogyakarta
● Taiwan - Waley Art in Taipei, Absolute Art Space in Tainan
● Cambodia - Sasa Art Projects in Phnom Penh
● Japan - Art Center Ongoing in Tokyo
● South Korea - Openspace Bae in Busan
● Argentina - Panal 361 in Buenos Aires
● Australia - TCB Art, Inc. in Melbourne
● China - SJT in Guangzhou, Organhaus in Chongqing, A4 Art Museum in Chengdu
The AIR programme welcomes artists of all disciplines who are looking to develop their body of work, conduct research or experiment on new projects, and explore the diversity of Bangkok. Tentacles provides the residency artist with a space in the shared studio, located within the N22 art warehouse where many art spaces and galleries are located, allowing engagement with local artists and artistic community, with accommodation in Tentacles house located 3-minute walk away. Tentacles assists and encourages the artists-in-residence to participate in local activities and context to take the most advantage of their stay in Bangkok. Participating artists have the opportunity to host workshops, seminars, talks, or screenings in the space or work with Tentacles ' members and community for their projects.
Tentacles looks for open-minded and motivated artists to join the programme. The suggested duration of residency is between 2-3 months to allow participating artists time to familiarise themselves with the local context and experiment with their practice. Applications are received on an ongoing basis with no specific deadline via e-mail (info@tentaclesgallery.com). They should attach preferred dates, CV, portfolio, and a brief proposal of their plan and the reason to participate in the AIR programme. Tentacles is an independent art space, their activities are mainly supported by their Arts & Craft workshops as well as the members and community. The current residency fee of 30,000 THB per month, which will contribute to support Tentacles' ongoing and future activities.