Studio journal
The Bootleg Show (MRKREME)
The Bootleg Show (MRKREME) A visit to The Bootleg Show by MRKREME (Varagun Chongthanapipat) at Bangkok’s Museum of Contemporary Art became more than a museum visit. Inspired by the exhibition’s playful exploration of originality, reinterpretation and creative identity, I left behind a small drawing of my own, “I am Bugsy, but you can call me SUE.” It was my quiet contribution to an exhibition that invited artists and visitors alike to question where originality truly begins. MRKREME’s work playfully blurs the boundaries between design, street culture, painting and sculpture, reminding us that creativity often grows through transformation rather than perfection.
Bangkok 6 April 2025
Some exhibitions invite you to look. Others invite you to participate.
The Bootleg Show by MRKREME was one of those rare exhibitions that encouraged visitors to become part of the conversation. His colourful universe of characters, playful installations and reflections on originality created an atmosphere where imagination felt unrestricted and experimentation was welcomed.
Inspired by that spirit, I sat down inside the exhibition and created a simple drawing titled “I am Bugsy, but you can call me SUE.” It was a spontaneous gesture nothing planned, nothing precious. Just a small piece of paper joining a wall filled with drawings made by others, each one adding another voice to the exhibition.
What appealed to me most was not only the work itself, but the openness behind it. MRKREME’s exhibition reminds us that art is not always about protecting originality. Sometimes it is about allowing ideas to evolve, to be reinterpreted and to live many different lives.
It was a joyful afternoon, full of humour, curiosity and creative freedom. Sometimes the smallest drawing becomes the nicest memory.
