Bangkok: The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) has inaugurated its "ART DNA HUB" event, marking a significant step in advancing Thai visual arts intellectual capital to an international level. Mr. Danuphorn Punkan, Assistant Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, led the opening ceremony and delivered a keynote speech at the ART DNA HUB: A Hub of Visual Arts Experts event, held at ICONSIAM, Bangkok.
According to Thai News Agency, the event was attended by notable figures such as Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; Dr. Wiparat Dee-ong, Director of the National Research Council; Professor Dr. Panachat Inthakong, Executive Director of ART DNA HUB, and National Artists, including Professor Preecha Thaothong. The initiative, organized under the theme "Decoding Art, Transmitting Knowledge Across Generations, Building People, Building Innovation," is poised to become a pivotal model for art knowledge dissemination.
Mr. Danuphorn Punkan emphasized the Ministry's dedication to developing skilled human resources and creating economic and social value through art, research, technology, and innovation. The ART DNA HUB project is envisioned as a national center for visual arts knowledge, promoting interdisciplinary learning, and enhancing Thai art and cultural personnel's potential on a global scale. The project aims to create collaborative networks to preserve cultural heritage, foster innovation, and drive sustainable development.
Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul highlighted that the ART DNA HUB aligns with the Ministry's policy to promote knowledge and innovation development. It serves as a mechanism for preserving and transmitting artistic knowledge, supported by a digital database and platform, thereby expanding learning opportunities nationwide. The initiative is expected to elevate Thai artists' potential internationally.
Dr. Wiparat Dee-ong emphasized the importance of systematically managing and disseminating Thailand's rich artistic knowledge. The ART DNA HUB aims to provide continuous access to art knowledge through Virtual Galleries and Exhibitions, fostering a collaborative learning ecosystem both domestically and internationally.
Professor Dr. Panachat Inthakong noted the project's focus on systematically collecting and sharing expert artists' creative processes and knowledge. The ART DNA HUB aims to be a national center for visual arts learning, offering equal access to art knowledge and leveraging cultural capital for innovation.
Professor Dr. Kritchanom Bhumikitipich congratulated the successful implementation of the ART DNA HUB project, which supports the systematic dissemination of knowledge to future generations. He acknowledged the efforts of government agencies, educational institutions, and collaborative networks in enhancing the country's creative economy and strengthening its soft power.
The ART DNA HUB exhibition introduces a comprehensive database of experts, a digital knowledge repository, and innovative tools such as the Art DNA Map and Canvas. It aims to connect various sectors to enhance knowledge, develop capabilities, and promote Thai art globally. The exhibition is open to the public until August 14, 2026, on the 8th floor of ICONSIAM, Bangkok.