When Art Funds Hope

2008, Zen Gallery Central World Bangkok. Ten international photographers came together for a charity exhibition supporting HIV+ children in Thailand. My work "Serenity Aspekt" was chosen as the official image for the campaign.

BEGINNINGS OF THE COLLABORATION

The project originated from HOPE (2007), my first humanitarian project developed with Mitch Webber (Ogilvy Action Bangkok). This charity calendar project—although not commercially available—demonstrated that an image can convey much more than aesthetics: it can convey hope. The photographs were recognized at the 2007 International Photo Awards, validating the approach.

Mark Ogaslert (founder of Bloom Pro Lab Bangkok) recognizes something unique in this approach. He introduces me to Jaffee Yee, founder of PhotoArtAsia—Asia's leading art photography magazine—who is looking for artists capable of combining technical excellence with social awareness for this exhibition.

"Serenity Aspekt": The Image of a Cause

Among the ten artists selected (Tay Kay Chin, Jason Wee, Erna Dyanty, Parthiv Shah), "Serenity Aspekt" became the official image: poster, invitations, and all communication for the exhibition.

This photograph was subsequently acquired by a private collector (Mr. Thawin), confirming the viability of the art-financing-impact model.

Concrete Impact

100% of profits donated to three organizations:

  • Mercy Center Bangkok (HIV+ children)

  • Baan Gerda (orphanage for children with disabilities)

  • Mercy Center Phrae (medical care)

  • Sale confirmed: "Serenity" 100×150cm to Mr. Thawin

  • First commercial validation of the "art finance impact" model

Meaning

Photo Art Asia 2008 proves that the model works: art can finance social action in a concrete way.

Sixteen years later, this model still structures my practice. The limited edition series I launch also finance projects with social impact.

Photo Art Asia 2008 was no charitable exception: it was the prototype of a system.

INFORMATION

• Location: Zen Gallery, Central World Bangkok

• Format: Group exhibition featuring 10 photographers

• Founder of PhotoArtAsia: Jaffee Yee

• Production: Bloom Pro Lab (Mark Ogaslert).