Thongchai Srisukprasert, 56
Legendary artist Thongchai Srisukprasert is one of Thailand’s most famous living art talents whose work is much sought after by diehard art fans.
The 56-year-old Nan native is always glad to contribute to a charitable cause, and so for this particular event he has brought two very special exhibits: one an acrylic and gold leaf on canvas called Spiritual In Triangle (2019) and the second a bronze sculpture called Pramahajanaka (2019).
Much of the inspiration for Spiritual In Triangle, he said, came from how he views the ways of the world and nature.
“I address the emotions and behaviour we find in our society and nature, plus the various stages each goes through in their individual circle of life. Human satisfaction and affection is often related to fortune, benefits and possession. When preoccupied with status, humans focus on rankings and position. When we feel the need to be praised, it is about being heard and commended. Happiness for many is a state of body, mind and soul.
“Feelings of sorrow stem from human dissatisfaction and feelings of not being loved. These emotions can arise due to
misfortune, suffering, feelings of being discredited and obscure, and others.”
Describing the exhibit that was derived from this inspiration, the multidisciplinary artist said the gable he created is a triangle shape inside an arch, above the entrance gate of a chapel.
Much of the details in the form of art decorations inserted in this space draw their origins from 300BC Hinduism and Indian and Egyptian history.
A Kirtimukha, a sculpture used to decorate ancient arches and widely used during the Sukhothai era, reflecting Rahu or Singha with an angry face, is the second contribution to the event.
“In Hinduism, Kirtimukha means ‘time,’ which has the power to consume anything in the world. So, time is superior and a processor of all things. Therefore, having ‘time’ or Kirtimukha in front of an entrance of sacred places helps protect the place and keeps it away from bad things,” explained Thongchai, who is well known for creating large-scale portraits, abstract and surreal paintings with themes rooted in Thai Buddhism and mythology.
The work for this was greatly impacted by dhamma teaching about eight rules of nature and the geometric figure of a triangle representing human intelligence.
“In this equation, everything is controlled by time; everything and everyone comes and goes according to the laws of nature. People living are represented in a circle of life, running in a circle. When I present this concept by combining Thai culture and traditions, the piece represents the beauty of the harmony of all these contrasts put together.”
Thongchai said he hopes through his work people will understand that life is short and so the need to help others in more need is something everyone should practise.
“Art For Refugees Exhibition 2” runs until Aug 31 at the Temporary Exhibition Room, Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) on Kamphaeng Phet 6 Road.