Phuket passes Thailand Biennale hosting duties to Rayong for 2027
The flag handover ceremony was held at 6:30pm on Saturday (Apr 25) at Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Town, presided over by Permanent Secretary for Culture Prasop Riang-ngern on behalf of Culture Minister Sabida Thaiseth.
Phuket formally handed over the Thailand Biennale to Rayong at a flag ceremony held at 6:30pm on Saturday, Apr 25, at Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Town. Permanent Secretary for Culture Prasop Riang-ngern presided on behalf of Culture Minister Sabida Thaiseth as responsibility for the next edition was transferred to Rayong, which will host the 5th Thailand Biennale in 2027.
Phuket Vice Governor Teeraphong Chuaychoo and Rayong Vice Governor Salareewan Taptavee took part alongside senior officials, artists and cultural representatives. The handover was staged before a large audience of Thai and international participants.
Phuket 2025 festival drew artists from 25 countries
The Thailand Biennale, Phuket 2025 was organised by the Ministry of Culture through the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture under the theme “Eternal Kalpa.” The programme ran from Nov 29, 2025 to Apr 30, 2026.
Events were spread across Mueang and Kathu districts, with 65 artists and artist groups from 25 countries showing work at more than 20 venues across the island. The festival also included 13 exhibition pavilions and parallel activities.
Closing ceremony highlighted performances and legacy
Saturday evening’s programme featured contemporary art and music performances by participating artist groups, the Phuket Youth Wind Orchestra and other acts reflecting the island’s cultural identity and creative sector.
Officials said the Biennale showed Phuket’s ability to stage a large international cultural event while creating a legacy through permanent art installations produced during the festival. Organisers said those works would remain as long-term cultural resources and learning centres for the public, supported by cooperation among state agencies, private partners, educational institutions and artist networks.
Rayong is expected to shape its edition around industrial development and environmental themes while presenting the identity of Thailand’s Eastern region.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-hands-over-thailand-biennale-to-rayong-100030.php
