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Published on July 31, 2007

Besides a computer, paintbrushes and a drawing table there are lots of books in the office of Mayuree Naranisorn, a stamp designer for Thailand Post.

She is not only a designer, but a researcher and bookworm, too.

As a designer, she talks about some of the things behind stamps; the things she tries to convey to collectors.

"In stamp design there are things beyond colour or composition. Stamps are like materials for learning. And there is also beauty," says Mayuree, who has been four years in stamp design.

Before creating a piece of work she finds information and different photographs of things that must be in the design.

The theme of a stamp varies - animals, historic places, culture and tradition.

She has to read as much information as she can find. In this way she has learned all about architecture, history and agriculture.

"Correct information is most important for stamp design. Stamps provide knowledge for others. We cannot present the wrong information, otherwise it would be a joke," says Mayuree.

She often travels with a team of researchers to delve deeper into her subject. Sometimes she is overwhelmed with information.

"I had to draw an anemone fish once. I really wanted to attend a diving course so I could visit its environment. It's not just the fish but its reef," say Mayuree, who is studying for a master's degree in applied art from Silpakorn University.

She says she once designed a series of rose stamps, and wanted to see the rare flowers up close. One strain grows at Chulalongkorn University, but only blooms between 5am and 6am. So, she had to wake up early to get photos.

"It's part of the charm of the job. We gain new knowledge all the time," says Mayuree, who first graduated from Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University.

She takes time to get accurate information for each piece of work.

Normally each year Thailand Post launches about 24 new stamp designs. Each of its designers creates at least three. Two are done by drawing and painting while others use computer graphics.

The first step is a huge drawing. Eventually it is reduced to the size of a stamp.

"We have to pay attention to colour. In some cases, such as the anemone fish, a slightly different shade of colour might mean a different species. They have tremendous variety and it can change colour in response to its environment and depth of sea," Mayuree says.

When her artwork is finished it is sent to experts for checking and approval.

Today, fewer and fewer people use the post. Hopefully designers' creativity will encourage people to pay more attention to stamps.

"We have to try to present things from a different angle. Drawing and graphic design using new technology has helped a lot."

Even though her stamps are used all over the country, not many people would recognise her from her work.

"I still recognise my teacher's work. The signature we sign doesn't tell as much as the skills and attention we pay to detail," she says.

Suwicha Chanitnun

The Nation