Then and Now


storytelling publication and exhibition project

"Then & Now" is a storytelling publication featuring the narratives of 30 Bangkok young adults, showcasing the contrasts between their experiences in the past and present (or between the elderly and today's young adults) in the year 2023. The primary objective of this project is to highlight the generation gap resulting from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds. Through the retelling of personal life experiences from both groups, the publication aims to foster intergenerational understanding and facilitate a platform for different generations to listen and acknowledge the unique perspectives and differences that shape each individual's journey. By bridging the gap between generations, "Then & Now" seeks to promote empathy, dialogue, and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experiences.



Process of ‘Then and Now’




The Interviews

A documentary with 2-channel sound
17 minutes 22 seconds

The voices of the Then and Now young adults are captured through interviews and discussions centered around 3 main issues: A Child's Opportunity, In Relationship, and Senior Cultures. These insightful conversations explore the experiences, challenges, and perspectives of the interviewees within these thematic areas. Each chapter provides a deep dive into the specific topic, offering a comprehensive understanding of the generational differences and the impact of socio-cultural backgrounds on these individuals' lives. The book serves as a platform to amplify these voices, promote intergenerational understanding, and facilitate meaningful dialogue on the diverse aspects of life explored in the interviews.



The context timeline

Printed on canvas
150 x 75 cm.

The timeline depicts the context of the global, Thai society and the birth period for 30 ‘Then and Now’ young adults.
The current record as of the year 2566 B.E.






Then and Now

2 books, 96 pages each
154 x 250 mm


Two books compiling 30 diverse stories from different backgrounds of young adults from both eras, divided into'Then' with 15 stories and 'Now' with 15 stories. The content within the books is arranged to reflect the transition of youngsters into adulthood in society, highlighting the issue of the generation gap in contemporary Thai society and exploring how it is influenced by different social contexts.



These books are designed to be read from either side and can accommodate two readers simultaneously. The type, illustrations, and layout of each book play a crucial role in capturing the essence of a specific time period, allowing the audience to journey back in time and explore hidden narratives on a profound level.



3 Chapters


The content of the publication is organized into three main chapters: "Educational Opportunities," "Relationship Values," and "Seniority Cultures." These chapters address the prevalent issues of generational gaps in Thai society, focusing on a child's journey to adulthood. The themes explored in each chapter are based on extensive research conducted on the current generation gap problems.

To enhance readers' comprehension, the publication also includes additional sections such as Q&A, informational content, and a dictionary. These supplementary contexts serve to support readers in understanding the material presented in the books.



(First row = 3 chapters inside ‘Then’ book | Second row = 3 chapters inside ‘Now’ book)


The Context

32 pages Saddle Stitches hand-binding
100 x 250 mm

The Context comprises four essential sections that provide significant context and background for the ‘Then and Now’ project: preface, research, design, and journal. Together, these four sections provide a comprehensive and immersive experience, offering context, research insights, visually appealing design, and engaging personal stories.





‘Then and Now’ reading room

COMMPOUND | Commde Creative Walk 2023
28.05.23 - 04.06.23 at 515 Victory gallery 




Furthermore, this project serves as a time capsule of the year 2023, capturing the essence of the present moment, which will eventually transform into the past. It also raises thought-provoking questions about the experience of transitioning into adulthood. It prompts contemplation on the potential transformation that individuals may undergo as they age, speculating that if the author were to become an elder in the future, they might adopt a more conservative mindset towards children of that time.



pear-ni

an editor, interviewer, writer, graphic designer,
and illustrator of ‘Then&Now’ project.

2024. all rights reserved. pear-ni.com