Bangkok, March 22 (CNA) Travelers on the Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS Skytrain) or the city’s MRT network might be lucky enough to see abstract illustrations and stunning photographs of Taiwan, on display from February to July.
The drawings were created by Thai illustrator Parinya Sirisinsuk, better known by his pen name “Benzilla,” while the photographs were taken by Kankavee Karnjanadecha.
Taiwan’s Tourism Administration said in February that the artwork will be displayed in various stations and carriages between February and July.
The aim is to promote southern Taiwan to Thai tourists.
The photos and artwork featured were the main subjects of Benzilla and Karnjanadecha’s trips to Taiwan.
Karnjanadecha’s photographs focused on the theme of “Taiwan’s four seasons” in the southern parts of the country.
Speaking with CNA, the photographer said he especially liked Taiwan’s museums and appreciated how the country supports artists.
He said his favorite shots were of temples lit up at night, adding that he also tried his hand at capturing more scenic shots at the behest of the Tourism Administration.
He also praised Kaohsiung’s art scene and said he would like to return to the city.
Meanwhile, Benzilla depicted Taiwan through a story told from the perspective of an “alien,” with his illustrations showing an alien being introduced to food and drinks like bubble tea and popular sights, including Taipei 101.
Benzilla said he visited Taiwan three times in 2024, adding that he enjoyed Taiwan’s mix of traditional and street art.
He said a highlight of his experience was being approached by curious kids while creating a graffiti mural in Taipei’s Ximending.
Besides promoting Taiwan through Bangkok’s public transportation, Taiwan’s Tourism Administration said it had invited the Thailand branch of National Geographic to Taiwan between Feb. 24 and 29 to shoot a show that will air on April 6 in the Southeast Asian country.
The administration further explained that Thai tourists tend to visit Taiwan to see cherry blossoms, relax in hot springs and take the Alishan Forest Railway.
