When a banana taped to a wall sold for over US$100,000, the world paid attention and reaffirmed the power and appreciation that many share for art and genius. As the world endures the COVID-19 pandemic, some are hoping to satiate their love for fine art while diversifying their investment portfolios through collectibles like antiques or other art installations. However, with many museums and galleries temporarily closing their doors due to the global crisis, the tech-savvy have turned towards the unexpected to help: cryptocurrency.
What some have laughed off to be science fiction decades ago are now being reminded that the future is now. Zipmex — an international digital assets exchange platform dealing with cryptocurrency — has gone from strength to strength. In January alone, the company reported an estimated 400 per cent growth compared to 2020 and to reward their clients, Zipmex offered their clients the unique opportunity to view and purchase exquisite pieces of art.
Zipmex chief strategy officer Proud Limpongpan and managing director Kelvin Lam at Nova Contemporary
Collaborating with the renowned art gallery, Nova Contemporary, Zipmex acted as a medium between fine art lovers and the private showing of The Study of A Long Distance Relationship by Thai artist Aracha Cholitgul. Significantly, this marks the first time that art lovers could use cryptocurrency to purchase the works shown in Cholitgul’s thoughtful exhibit. Her interest in unifying her personal experience with spirituality and intimacy have led to her exhibit’s showcase of her profound thoughts and reflections on home, uncertainty, emotional distance and relationships. Aracha Cholitgul’s art was not the only event on the menu, as to ensure their guests’ enjoyment, an assortment of Northeastern inspired dishes, like mushroom and truffle tarts, were specifically prepared and curated by 100 Mahaseth, one of Bangkok’s authority on authentic Northeastern cuisine and listed as one of Tatler Thailand’s Best Restaurants. For a finishing flourish, clients were each gifted with custom-designed tote bags by local artist Bloody Hell Big Head (Tanawat Sakdawisarak), a recent partner with Hermès Paris.
Aracha Cholitgul with gallery owner Sutima Sucharitakul
