Performance | Rirkrit Tiravanija: DAS GLÜCK IST NICHT IMMER LUSTIG
Somtam Manifesto
Unthaitled x Mon Sisu Satrawaha with Tanaad
Photo: Ricardo Preciado Devia
With the performance Somtam Manifesto, Mon Sisu Satrawaha and Tanaad from the unthaitled collective critically examine the history and politics of Thai marriage migration to Germany, challenging the colonial gaze that often portrays Asian women as caregivers or exotic sexual comfort providers.
Discussions on Germany’s thai diaspora often focus on the fetishisation of Asian women, perpetuating stereotypes of poverty, weakness and involvement in sex labour. Central to the exploration of the performance is the iconic Thai dish ”Som Tam (ส้มตำ)“ or green papaya salad, unravelling narratives within its preparation, ingredients and cultural significance through reading and live sound performance. Som Tam serves as a gateway to comprehend the experiences and struggles of Thai women amidst the backdrop of marriage migration.
The unthaitled collective brings together artists and creatives from the Thai diaspora in Germany who dedicate their practice to countering the stereotypes imposed by Western discourses. Together they curate interdisciplinary exhibitions, film programmes and cultural events with the aim of liberating their community from these imposed categories and labels.
Mon Sisu Satrawaha (ม่อน ศิศุ สาตราวาหะ) is a Thai filmmaker, artist and curator. Her research-based practice moves within disciplines such as installation, performance and food, exploring themes of diverse social viewpoints, anthropology, intercultural relations and contemporary culture.
Tanaad is a Bangkok-born music producer, musician and DJ, currently based in Berlin. He is the initiator of the blozxom community and record label project. His work includes live performances and DJ sets, with notable appearances at events such as the Ghost2565: live without dead time, Boiler Room x Maho Rasop Festival, Wonderfruit Festival in Bangkok & Chonburi (Thailand), and the Asian Meeting Festival in Tokyo, Kobe & Kyoto (Japan). Recently, Tanaad designed sound and music for short films, including ”No Exorcism“ by Komtouch Dew Napattaloong, which premiered in 2024 at CPH:DOX, Copenhagen.
During the event, photographs and video recordings may be made in which you may be recognisable. By attending, you consent to these recordings being used to communicate the event or exhibition.