Thai Community Development Center
Gallery » Thai Town Gateway
Thai Town Gateway
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At the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Western Avenue in Hollywood, the community celebrated the Thai Town Gateway
inauguration as the first of four Thai angel statues known as the “Apsonsi” was installed on June 15, 2007. The beautification
project symbolizes the cultural and economic ties between Los Angeles’ Thai American community and the City of Bangkok,
Thailand, which are both internationally known as the City of Angels.
The beautification of Thai Town through the embrace of Thai art and other
ethnic art projects already on display in Hollywood complements each
other to improve the quality of life for all residents and support the ongoing
economic development of the area. The Thai Town Gateway makes
known the presence of the Thai community and its vital role in
contributing to the social and economic fabric of this country.
The “Apsonsi” Thai angel is a mythical half-human, half-lion creature that
protects and brings good fortune to those around it. This angel and the
three that are planned for installation will welcome visitors to Thai Town in
Hollywood with hands clasped in front of their chests near the chin in the
traditional Thai greeting. The sculpture, created by a group of Thai
artisans in Thailand is made of cement, gold and black brass. Each
sculpture stands six feet tall and on its pedestal will reach a height of sixteen
feet.
MEDIA:
LA Times: Greetings from the new angel in town, June 16, 2007
Youtube: Apsonsi Thai Town Gateway Part A
Youtube: Apsonsi Thai Town Gateway Part B