BANGKOK DESIGN WEEK 2024, 27 JAN–4 FEB

ARCANE

NEXUS

Arcane is a space for conceptual thinking applied to creative expression. Operating between London and Berlin Arcane focuses on the creative potential of nature as a material over a spectrum of design disciplines and across scales pursuing synthesis and abstraction. As Arcane Stefano and Alexandra have successfully delivered ‘ a Garden too Secret’ as art of BKK DW 2023. Both Alexandra and Stefano are currently based in Bangkok and full time instructors at INDA (International Programme for Design and Architecture) at the Chulalongkorn University. Nexus (BKKDW2024) Often compared to Venice, Bangkok is a city founded on water. Waterways have been a resource for agriculture and a transport infrastructure that contributed to a thriving economy. Approximately 170 years later, Bangkok is a multi-million inhabitants capital with major hydro-geologic problems where the water that contributes to the development of the settlement have become an enemy to defend from. The availability of petrol motors made land transportation more convenient and streets replaced canals over concrete decking. Our proposal for BKKDW 2024 revolves around bringing back the attention to water as the DNA of Bangkok, both as a public space and a piece of infrastructure. One emerging vision for a possible future of Bangkok could consist of the re-opening of decked canals turned into a capillary public transportation system as a viable alternative to cars, as well as a catalyst for public space. There are many challenges to overcome such as sewage separation, contamination and private interests, however, with our proposed project, we intend to show the potential of canals by producing a floating installation that can host entertainment events and move in different locations. ‘Nexus’ is an invitation to the Bankokians to reconnect with water and look beyond the “smell of Khlong”, rediscover . The proposal consists of creating a floating device which can potentially be accessed by the public or become a stage for performances or projections enjoyed from the bridges and canal banks. The floating platform is intended to be constructed as a timber or metal frame and recycled barrels. This form of construction is widely used as a cost effective way to produce a floating device. The top surface should be walkable, we intend to re-use abandoned timber planks or similar non-slippery material. The superstructure (above water) will be a metallic frame (either welded metal profiles or connected scaffolding pipes) infilled with a translucent material that has refractive properties during the day and at night under artificial lighting. The exact form of the installation will be developed in partnership with the organisers, we are currently proposing an abstract form that provides some dynamism and serves as a contemporary interpretation of traditional boats. The inherent complexity, despite the simple geometry, offers opportunities to interact with it through performances with or without human bodies. The translucent layer could be fulfilled by recycled plastic rigid modules mechanically fixed to the frame or fabric, the final decision might depend on the detailed budget allowance for the project. The installation is conceived to be experienced both during the day and at night. Daytime appearance is based on the sculptural qualities of the installation while in the evening, artificial light, sound and misting effects will provide installation with a new life. The floating nature and the references to the water transport suggests that the installation should move along the canal. This could be an opportunity to activate different parts of the canal along the BKKDW2024 event. We welcome the organisers input in defining the extent of the movement, supporting with the logistics and opportunistically coordinating Nexus and the rest of the event’s programme.