Two Sides of the Moon

Two Sides of the Moon is a two-channel video installation by Som Supaparinya, a Thai artist based in Chiang Mai. The artist is known for creating multiple-screen installations utilising documentary-style moving images. The subject of her work revolves around the relationship between man-made infrastructures and their environmental impact. For Thailand Biennale, Som traveled upstream on the Mun river from Khong Chiam district in Ubon Ratchathani province to its water source in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Mun, the name of the river, means a valuable gift from the ancestors in local dialect. During the Cold War period, the American troops who were stationed along the river gave her a transliteration “Moon”, which also introduced a new meaning. In the 700 kilometers journey, Som filmed the untroubled riverscape and livelihood of people along the shore. The artist also recorded commentaries of the locals. Two Sides of the Moon is presenting two sides of the same gift. It urges us to think of the current state of the river and how to save it for the next generation.