While Chiang Mai boasts iconic locations and stunning temples, some lesser-known corners often go unnoticed, lacking notable stories. For Chiang Mai Design Week 2023, we’ve partnered with creators to unveil these ‘hidden corners’ in the Chang Moi neighborhood. Embracing the Transforming Local concept, merging old and new creative forces, we’ll showcase digital art, breathing life into overlooked areas with unique narratives. These revitalized corners offer a ‘shortcut,’ guiding guests through the city’s historic communities and various district showcases. Join us in discovering the intriguing stories hidden in these secret corners.

Arch Entrance at Wat Chompu (Pagoda Local) : Projection Mapping by Kor.Bor.Vor Visual Label

Many Chiang Mai residents know that the pagoda of Wat Chompu, in the Chang Moi area, was twinned with that of the Phra That Doi Suthep’s pagoda, so that Lanna people could pay homage to Phra That Doi Suthep without having to scale the mountain. Another ancient site that many people may overlook due to familiarity is the arch entrance or “Pratu Khong”, on the north side of the temple, constructed in an ancient Lanna style more than 500 years ago. The later development of the city meant the overcrowded houses built around the temple have drowned out the majesty of this arch.

The arch entrance at Wat Chompu is considered another secret corner by the modern multimedia artist group and creators of many cool site-specific mixed-media works, Kor.bor.Vor. Visual Label, who will apply projection mapping to supplement the beauty of the transforming arch, a landmark overlooked by many, to be vivified with a contemporary story once again.

Red Bridge over Mae Kha Canal (The Connection Bridge) : Projection Mapping by Kor.Bor.Vor Visual Label 

Close by, in the Chang Moi community, is “Saphan Daeng,” a small red bridge over Mae Kha Canal. This bridge has been used for decades by the community as a shortcut, connecting the Wat Chompu area to Ratchawong Road. For the first time, during Chiang Mai Design Week 2023, we would like to use this bridge as an additional route for accessing the event while exploring the community. The Kor.bor.Vor. Visual Label team has created digital art to enliven the area around the bridge, transforming it from yet another ‘passing way’ into a chic check-in point. Don’t miss this—stop by for a visit!

Five shophouses (Original Five) : Projection Mapping by Kor.Bor.Vor Visual Label 

On Ratchawong Road, Soi 3, we have a venue known as the “five shophouses.” These five commercial shophouses exemplify early-modern architecture in this historic commercial area. They are currently undergoing transformation to stimulate new business as the area grows. The Kor.bor.Vor. The Visual Label team has seized the opportunity to use these buildings as a venue to showcase animations depicting the development of the Chang Moi area.

Thana-Arkarn (Pern-San-Chan) : Projection Mapping by Decide Kit

Finishing at Thana-Arkarn Building, the former location of a famous commercial bank in the area, the façade of this building features lines resembling ears of rice. This not only signifies the identity of the said bank but also represents the city’s beautiful modern architectural heritage. Alongside a captivating showcase inside and in front of the building, the artist group Decide Kit, known for numerous innovative light-color-sound projects, is responsible for projection mapping to narrate the story and identity of this contemporary neighborhood, overlaying the character of the building with an interesting twist.

These are some of the ‘hidden corners’ being revitalized with new creative ideas by artist groups. What will be their story of transformation? What kind of stylish work will be seen? We will soon reveal.