A Whole New World

Valentino's Toile Iconographe finds its place in art thanks to Thai artist Pinaree Sanpitak.

- Shermin Ng

At the inaugural edition of the ART SG event in January this year was a unique collaboration that brought together art, fashion and food. Thai artist Pinaree Sanpitak showcased a new commission, Breast Stupas Valentino (2023), which reimagined Valentino's Toile Iconographe pattern in her signature motif. The association with food was observed in Breast Stupa Cookery Valentino, comprising an ephemeral invitation to eat and drink from vessels created by the artist. Sanpitak tells us about her practice and collaboration with Valentino.

What shaped your artistic journey?

At 19, I went to The School of Fine Arts and Design at the University of Tsukuba on a five-year scholarship. I was the only foreign undergraduate that year and the professors let me explore so I found my language quite early. I started the breast works in 1994, two months after I gave birth to my son, and continued exploring it for almost 30 years.

Why does the breast form fascinate you? What is its significance for you?