You are viewing a past festival  see current festival

Craftsman Roastery

ThaiOldGraphy

The journey of printing technology from Europe to Thailand during the reign of King Narai marked a significant beginning in the history of Thai script and printing. This exhibition presents the evolution of Thai typefaces, from their origins influenced by French missionaries to the modern era. It highlights key milestones such as the arrival of missionary groups, the publication of the “Jindamanee” textbook, and the impact of the “Romain du Roi” typeface technology from France. Exhibition Highlights 1. The Birth of Thai Typography – The influence of printed catechisms by Father Louis Laneau. 2. The First Thai Language Textbook – The foundation of Thai language education during King Narai’s reign. 3. Romain du Roi and Thai Typography – The intersection of science and the art of type design. 4. The Craft of Thai Lettering in the Rattanakosin Era – The legacy of printing knowledge from the Ayutthaya period. Exhibition Activities Coffee Talk: “Typo Story, from Writing to Printing” Workshop: “One & Only: Designing Your Identity with Typography” This exhibition invites visitors to explore a historical journey that reflects the beauty of Thai printing arts and the profound influence of foreign technologies on Thailand’s cultural identity. About the Artist Ankul Assavaviboonpan is a visionary designer with a strong foundation in industrial education and an impressive career spanning nearly two decades. His work demonstrates a deep passion for fusing traditional cultural elements with contemporary design. Known for his innovative approach, Ankul specializes in graphic and product design, often focusing on typography and storytelling through everyday objects. His accolades, including multiple Demark Awards, Good Design Awards, and recognition in international competitions like the Dezeen Awards and the Golden Pin Design Award, highlight his ability to craft designs that resonate on a global scale. His projects, such as the “Postcard 44 Thai Alphabets” and “ETC. Greeting Card Set,” reflect meticulous attention to detail and a love for Thai cultural heritage, reinterpreted through a modern lens. As both a director and designer, Ankul balances creativity with leadership, constantly pushing the boundaries of design while preserving the essence of Thai identity. His character can be described as innovative, culturally rooted, and dedicated to excellence, with a profound ability to translate tradition into timeless, functional art. About the Venue The exhibition is a collaboration between the artist and Craftsman Roastery at Old Town, a specialty coffee cafÃĐ. The venue is a two-story shophouse located along Bamrung Muang Road, originally built during the reign of King Rama V. It has been renovated with a focus on architectural conservation. The location itself serves as part of the inspiration for the exhibition, as Bamrung Muang Road was one of the first significant commercial streets in the Phra Nakhon district in its early days.