Looking for something new to do in the Thai Capital? Why not visit an Interactive Art Event? Unlike conventional exhibitions, viewers are immersed in the artwork when it is projected on floors and ceilings all around them. As well as stimulating the sense of sight, those of hearing and even touch are also involved. To date, there have been several of these happenings, including those featuring works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Leonardo Da Vinci. Currently, you can see Gustav Klimt’s artistry at an exhibition entitled “A Golden Kiss”.

Klimt was born in Austria in 1862 and became known as one of the most influential figures in modern art. His work bridged the gap between traditional academic painting and more experimental, contemporary forms with a distinctive style combining ornamentation, and symbolism. His two brothers Ernst Klimt and Georg Klimt were also artists but never received the same fame. Georg Klimt was primarily a sculptor and Ernst trained, like Gustav, at the Vienna School of Arts and Crafts.

Ernst and Gustav collaborated on many large-scale murals and decorations for theatres and public buildings until Ernst’s untimely death at the age of only 28. This had a profound impact on Gustav, both personally and artistically as after Ernst’s death, Gustav moved away from traditional academic art, towards more avant-garde, personal work.

Gustav Klimt’s works were initially considered controversial for their merging of symbolism and eroticism with unconventional depictions of human figures. However, undeterred, he formed the Vienna Secession with a group of like-minded artists who sought to challenge the traditional academic art institutions. The group included Koloman Moser, Josef Hoffmann, and Egon Schiele and together with Klimt, they embraced new, progressive forms such as Symbolism, Art Nouveau, and Modernism.

Klimt’s father was a gold engraver which influenced Gustav’s use of gold leaf, especially during what was termed his “Golden Phase” (1901 to 1909). This proved to be his most iconic period during which he completed his celebrated work “The Kiss”. Also, “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I” which was purchased by Ronald S. Lauder (son of Estée Lauder the cosmetics billionaire) for a record-breaking $135 million. It was the highest price ever paid for a painting at that time.

The piece had been at the centre of a long restitution battle after being looted by the Nazis during World War II, The story was later made into a film “Woman in Gold” starring Helen Mirren. Telling the story of the niece of Adele Bloch-Bauer, Maria Altmann, it depicts the legal battle she had to reclaim her family’s stolen artwork.

Gustaf Klimt died in 1918 but his works influenced later movements such as Art Deco, and many other 20th-century artists wishing to break boundaries between fine art and decorative art. Today he is celebrated for pieces which have become iconic symbols of love and beauty. You can see them wonderfully displayed and accompanied by marvellous music when you visit.

‘A Golden Kiss” at Media District, 6th floor, Em Tower, Emsphere Bangkok Until 31st December 2024. Open Daily from 10:30 am – 9:00 pm 750 baht on weekdays and 850 baht at weekends (390/450 for under 23 and over 65-year-olds)