NRCT and TACDA Showcase Thai Craftsmanship at London Craft Week 2026 through the “WOVEN SHADE” Exhibition, Bringing Research and Innovation to Elevate Traditional Basketry onto the International Art Stage
On 12 May 2026, the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), in collaboration with the Thai Arts and Crafts Development Association (TACDA), officially launched the International Pavilion Thailand through the exhibition “WOVEN SHADE” at London Craft Week 2026.
The opening ceremony was honored by the presence of H.E. Mr. Nattawut Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to London, and Mrs. Priabthip Krishnamra, spouse of the Ambassador of Thailand to the UK; Mr. Guy Salter, Founder of London Craft Week; Professor Peter Pilgrim; Dr. Alexandra Green; representatives from Asia House; Associate Professor Dr. Namfon Laistrooglai, expert in museum studies and traditional arts and crafts; and Ms. Sirinporn Deawtrakool, Deputy Executive Director of NRCT. The event was held at Asia House London, United Kingdom, and attracted considerable interest from designers, curators, art collectors, and visitors from around the world.
The exhibition highlights the transformation of Thailand’s traditional basketry heritage into contemporary artistic expressions through the integration of cultural wisdom, creative design, and research-based innovation. “WOVEN SHADE” demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship can be reinterpreted and elevated for international audiences while preserving its cultural authenticity and identity.
In addition to the exhibition, a series of interactive workshops was organized throughout the event. One of the featured activities, “Pla Tapian: Thai Woven Fish Workshop,” offered participants an opportunity to learn the traditional weaving techniques used to create Pla Tapian (woven fish ornaments), a cherished Thai symbol of abundance, prosperity, and good fortune. Participants were invited to create their own woven fish decorations, allowing them to experience the beauty and intricacy of Thai handicrafts firsthand.
The workshops were held from 13–17 May 2026 at Asia House, London, and attracted strong interest from the public, with a large number of participants registering in advance throughout the festival period.
The “WOVEN SHADE” exhibition represents another successful outcome of research in the arts and humanities supported by NRCT. It reflects the organization’s commitment to enhancing Thailand’s cultural capital through science, research, and innovation, while creating new opportunities for Thai cultural heritage to engage with global audiences.
NRCT’s participation in London Craft Week 2026 serves as an important platform for showcasing the beauty and value of Thai craftsmanship on the international stage. The initiative demonstrates how cultural capital can be transformed into a driving force for the creative economy, generating new opportunities for Thai identity, creativity, and innovation to contribute to sustainable economic development.
Furthermore, the event highlights the growing collaboration and friendship between Thailand and the United Kingdom in promoting cultural exchange, creative industries, and research-driven innovation. Through such international partnerships, Thailand continues to strengthen its global presence while fostering greater appreciation for its rich artistic heritage and contemporary creative potential.
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by: National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT)
