Vorasan Supap, 52
n a generation where an increasing number of people find themselves forced to flee persecution for their political or religious beliefs, ethnicity, nationality or membership of a particular social group, the possibility of becoming a refugee is ever closer to us than before.
“I feel a great honour to be part of this noble endeavour to support refugees because it offers me the opportunity to help a vulnerable group of people who have little hope for the future,” said Vorasan, a native of Si Sa Ket.
“It is important to have empathy because you never know just when you might be in their shoes. My experience of visiting a Karen refugee camp with a group of artists a couple of months ago was a real eye opener. Almost all had a forlorn gaze about themselves. When they heard that our group was part of an event which would help generate support for them, their countenance changed and I saw a ray of hope in their eyes.”
Thai artists participating in this event, he said, have all worked hard to reach where they are today.
Known as the “River” painter, Vorasan’s exhibit this time depicts his passion for life on the traditional junk boats, meandering tranquilly along the Chao Phraya River during the “good old days”.
His paintings are often characterised by boats and river scenes, illuminated by fascinating colour combinations, which create light and dark colour schemes that dictate his mood at the time.
“The rear end of the junk boats where the boatman and his family live is what fascinates me most. After a long day, they eat their meals, take a shower and spend quality time with each other in this tiny space.
“They are happy and content with their lot in life. Happiness is indeed a frame of mind.”
Vorasan describes his paintings as depicting happiness and tranquillity in the most down-to-earth form. Manypeople spend a lifetime seeking joy and happiness. “In my opinion, life on the junk boat is
where one experiences true happiness. For one, you learn to be content with the basic things in life, which is one’s family
and havingenough to sustain life.”