The Bangkok art scene welcomes a new highlight this season with the unveiling of “STRATUM”, a solo exhibition by Ukrainian-born artist Illya Skubak, hosted at The Charoen AArt from June 15 to August 17, 2025. Skubak’s latest body of work explores the concept of layered time and memory through tactile abstraction and atmospheric installations.
The Concept of “Stratum”
“Stratum,” meaning “layer” or “level,” provides both the thematic and visual framework for the exhibition. Through a series of textural paintings and sculptural forms, Skubak delves into how memory, material history, and cultural erosion overlap and transform. Each piece is a reflection on how past and present coalesce into a fragmented yet interconnected whole.
His abstract approach challenges viewers to look beneath surfaces, both literal and metaphorical, to encounter hidden narratives and emotional resonance. The works are subdued in palette but rich in gesture, often incorporating mixed media to invoke geological and emotional depth.
The Artist’s Process and Philosophy
Illya Skubak’s background in architecture and multidisciplinary design informs his use of space and structure. “STRATUM” is not simply a collection of artworks, it is an immersive environment. Each piece is strategically placed within the gallery to encourage a quiet, almost meditative walk through layers of personal and collective reflection.
Skubak’s technique involves building, scraping, and layering paint and material until a surface emerges that feels unearthed rather than created. It mirrors the way memories settle over time, some clearly defined, others barely traceable.
The Venue: The Charoen AArt
Located in one of Bangkok’s rising creative districts, The Charoen AArt continues to champion contemporary artists with conceptual depth and international relevance. The gallery provides a fitting space for “STRATUM,” allowing the works to breathe and interact with the architectural space around them.
Visitors can expect a minimalist but powerful setting, ideal for contemplating the subtleties of Skubak’s work.
A Must-See for Art Enthusiasts in Bangkok
Running for over two months, “STRATUM” is a meditative counterpoint to the city’s vibrant pace. For lovers of abstract art, thoughtful design, and contemporary philosophy, this exhibition offers a profound and poetic experience.
Admission is free, and the exhibition is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a curious art lover, or simply seeking quiet inspiration, Illya Skubak’s “STRATUM” is a journey into depth and detail, one that invites you to pause, reflect, and perhaps even uncover a few hidden layers within yourself.
