PRESS ADVISORY: Internet Universality Beyond Words exhibition and round-table discussion on artistic freedom

[ภาษาไทย]

How do we assure a free, open and accessible Internet for all? How can we best realize the potential of online expression and interactions for sustainable development? What are the actions that could positively influence artistic freedom and creativity in Thailand?

On the occasion of the International Day for Universal Access to Information on 28 September, UNESCO is launching a collaborative exhibition at Thailand’s Creative and Design Center, hosting 11 Thai artists and content creators who are highlighting UNESCO’s concept of Internet Universality. The exhibition calls for anInternet that works for all and is based on four basic principles: human rights (R), openness (O), accessibility (A) and multi-stakeholder participation (M) – known as the ROAM principles.

Projects on display at the exhibition will include:

• ‘My virtual playground’ illustrated book series on Internet literacy and self-protection from cyber-harm,based on the results of an online survey
• A video documentary exploring the laws affecting online freedom of expression to clarify the misunderstandings associated to Internet Universality
• Phasa Thai(land): ‘The Books of Languages’ highlighting the degree of visibility of Thailand through different languages used on the Internet
• ‘Watch!’ a sculpture made of images from Thai news raising questions about civic engagement through the Internet
• A video art piece on how memes can be used as a coded language in Thailand to discuss prohibited historical and political messages
• A design student project from King Mongkut University of Technology Thonburi analyzing the intersection between the Internet and traditional craft practices in Petchaburi and Bangkok’s old town

A round-table discussion before the exhibition launch, moderated by the exhibition curator Sali Sasaki, will focus on artistic freedom and the contributions the UNESCO Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (2005) can make to address the challenges the creative sector in Thailand currently faces. Speakers include exhibitors, Duong Bich Hanh and Misako Ito from UNESCO but also prominent Thai film directors, Sorayos Prapapan, Pen-ek Ratanaruang and Anucha Boonyawatana.

In line with 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, 28 September emphasizes the international commitment to ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms.

The news media and general public are welcome to attend the launch event. The exhibition will be open to the visitors of TCDC from 28 September to 14 October 2018, from 10.30 am to 9.00 pm every day except on Mondays.

Round-table discussion: 4.00 pm, 28 September, TCDC Function Room (4th floor)

Exhibition launch: 5.30 pm, 28 September, TCDC Rooftop, 5th floor

Thailand Creative and Design Center:
1160 Charoen Krung Rd
Khwaeng Bang Rak, Khet Bang Rak,
Bangkok 

Download the full programme of the event.

Click here to access to the project online archives.