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Published on August 1, 2007

Young Thai artists finding it difficult to showcase their works overseas have found an unexpected ally in the diplomatic corps. For the past year, Kittiphong Na Ranong, Thailand's ambassador to Vietnam, has been using his Hanoi residence as a small art gallery, its walls dedicated to the paintings of young and little-known artists.

While Kittiphong says he's not hosting an exhibition, he allows the works to be exposed to a wide range of viewers.

All year round, the ambassador welcomes guests from all around the globe. The artworks don't just soften the otherwise formal character of the residence, but also offer a point for discussion.

The seeds of the idea were planted when Kittiphong paid a visit to the US ambassador's residence and learned that the paintings by American artists he was admiring were on loan as part of a world tour of diplomatic residences.

"Art is a bridge to culture," Kittiphong notes. "It's not just about giving Thai artists the opportunity to expose their art, but also a chance to promote Thai culture."

When visitors see the paintings, the ambassador is happy to elaborate on the work and explain what it relates to. "That's in addition to the name of the artist and the basic information that's next to each work, just as it would be in an exhibition."

Kittiphong is collaborating with the Siam Cement Group Foundation, organisers of the annual Young Thai Artist Award.

At the moment, paintings by Theekawut Boonvijit and Pratana Jaroensukpanich are gracing the walls of the Royal Thai embassy as well as the ambassador's house. Both artists were finalists in last year's competition.

Theekawut says his peers are looking forward to this year's contest, not just for the exposure opportunities, but also for the scholarships and encouragement it provides.

Kittiphong is also planning to initiate a collaborative project with young Vietnamese artists.

The diplomat, who has been based in the region for more than a decade, says that while the two countries are geographically close, the gap in knowledge is still wide. And while he says more young Vietnamese are interesting in studying Thai, he believes art is the universal language.

Vietnamese art, he explains, has been influenced by Western style since the French colonisation and the lacquer ware is exquisite.

"Some embassy staff have taken art courses in Hanoi and made such good progress that they've been able to exhibit their work."

Thai art also has a lot of unique features, so collaboration between young artists will enhance the relationship.

Today, some 200,000 Vietnamese tourists travel every year to Thailand and about 120,000 Thais head in the other direction. That figure is expected to rise. In term of the economy, the ambassador says it will be fruitful.

For more information about the Young Thai Artist Award, visit SiamCementFoundation.com.

Kupluthai Pungkanon

The Nation