Hathai

Chamnan Chongpaiboon is part of a new generation of young Thai artists working in a new, innovative graphic style under the foundations of modern art and multimedia forms of Japanese printing. Chamnan was born into a large family which includes three brothers, three sisters, and their grandfather who became a very positive influence on Chongpaiboon’s development as a person and as an artist. As the youngest child, Chamnan was encouraged to explore passion for art, and at an early age he began to distinguish himself with his talents in drawing. He recalls, “I was not as good as some of my fellow students, but despite that and that we only had one class a week, I was completely focused on improving my technique and at the same time, I knew I wanted to become a professional artist.”

Chamnan attended the University of Fine Arts of Shupanburi and got a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts with a minor in Engraving at the King Mougkut Institute of Technology in Ladkrabang. Chamnan is an artist that is never unmotivated; he is often seen creating from early morning until dawn, drawing inspiration from his environment and the people who form it.

Although Chamnan is a perfectionist in some ways – especially when it comes to the final, finishing details of the work – he realizes that all artistic expressions have merit and all artists are worthy of respect. “Artists are amazing people, despite the fame. Throughout history they have shown incredible levels of persistence and were known to believe in themselves strongly. They are admirable successes whatever the nature of theirwork may be.

Chamnan’s favorite artist is one of his university professors, Mr. Dacha Chamnan Worachun, who fascinated Chongpaiboon with the discovery of an innovative technique to create textures on copper. Another huge influence for Chamnan was the Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama who traveled to America at age 20 to study sculpture and painting. It was her work and spirit that most likely inspired Chamnan so greatly. Each of Chamnan’s works takes approximately one to two weeks to create, as he insists on working every aspect of the paint to achieve the highest quality possible. Chamnan recently mounted major exhibitions at River City and the Kromatik Gallery.