DMOF — pi-near

“Dear my old friends,” — a first solo exhibition by pi-near that delves into the bittersweet experience of growing up and letting go of childhood friends.

Through a collection of paintings, ceramics, and textile works, the artist reflects on childhood friendships and the inevitable process of saying goodbye. Inspired by conversations with her younger self, this exhibition explores themes of loss, gratitude, and acceptance. At its heart, Dear My Old Friends is a letter to the past, a contemplation on change, parting ways, and the beauty of holding onto memories while embracing new journeys.

The artist's creative process began with a deep dive into personal archives. Inspired by the rediscovery of cherished childhood toys, they embarked on a journey of self-reflection, documenting their thoughts and memories in a series of illustrated letters. These letters formed the foundation of a collaborative art book, which was then translated into a multi-faceted installation. The artist worked closely with ceramics studios, textile artisans, and woodworking experts to bring their vision to life. By experimenting with various materials and techniques, such as ceramics, patchwork, and repurposed wood, the artist created a rich and tactile exhibition that invites viewers to explore the intersection of art and memory.

photo credits: Chatchat M., Wimutt L.

Curtain Patchwork and Ceramic Tiles

Consisting of 8 experimental hand-patchworked curtains and 9 ceramic tiles that tell the story of a young girl and her beloved teddy bear. Their bond is woven through shared laughter, dreams, and moments of comfort.As time passes and the girl grows, the curtains symbolize her journey of change. The final panel represents the bittersweet moment of parting, where she must let go, allowing her cherished companion to find a new friend. Each patchwork and ceramic tile reflects memories and transitions.

Ceramic tiles in collaboration with lamunlamai.studio

Picture Book: “Dear my old friend”

hard cover, 96 pages
produced by Spacebarzine

Synopsis:

A young girl and her beloved teddy bear have been inseparable for as long as she can remember. Together, they share laughter, dreams, and quiet moments of comfort. But as time passes, she begins to change, and the world around her grows bigger. One day, she must make a decision—to let go and allow her cherished companion to find a new friend.

Dear my old friends is a heartfelt picture book about childhood, change, and the bittersweet beauty of saying goodbye. Through gentle storytelling and evocative illustrations, it explores the experience of a child growing up and realizing that not everything can be held onto forever—especially objects, relationships, and moments that once felt essential.

story & visual by pi-near

Workshop: “Nice to Meet You, New Friend”
This workshop is a heartfelt process of passing on childhood companions—stuffed dolls that once held deep stories and emotional bonds—to new little hands, or “new friends.”

These dolls may not be brand new; they carry signs of love and past adventures. Yet, each one is filled with meaningful memories from its previous owner. Through storytelling and creative activities, participants will explore the emotional journey of parting, sharing, and welcoming a new chapter in a cherished toy’s life.

This workshop encourages empathy, nostalgia, and meaningful connections across generations.

Special Thanks to RTUS-Bangkok, มูลนิธิเพื่อการพัฒนาเด็ก , สสส. (สำนักงานกองทุนสนับสนุนการสร้างเสริมสุขภาพ) and รองเมืองเรืองยิ้ม