Thai Artists

Traditional Thai art was heavily influenced by Buddhist and Hindu traditions brought from India and neighboring countries by various empires and ethnic groups. By the mid-thirteenth century, a unique Thai style, which flourished in northern Thailand during the Sukhothai (1238 – 1438) and Ayutthaya (1350 – 1767) periods, had developed. Buddhism was the primary theme of traditional Thai sculpture and painting, and the royal courts provided patronage, erecting temples and other religious shrines as acts of merit or to commemorate important events. In the late 17th – 18th century,  Thai art began to show evidence of Western influences. Contemporary Thai art often combines traditional Thai elements with modern media and techniques, and encompasses some of the most diverse and versatile art in Southeast Asia.

The art scene in Thailand in centered in Bangkok. Many older Thai artists create art often influenced by traditional Buddhist beliefs and motives, and this art is popular among the general Thai public. Nevertheless, many younger upcoming Thai artists are breaking away from these norms by addressing more controversial issues in their works.

Several of Bangkok’s Universities have prominent art schools. Silapakorn University stands out as the most reputable of them. Established at the beginning of the 19th century it drew inspiration from the Italian teacher and artist, Corrado Feroci. Feroci was invited to Thailand by the Thai Government in 1923. He eventually remained in Thailand taking on the Thai name Silpa Bhirasri. Professor Bhirasri is regarded as the one who paved the way for Thai modern art and constructed a framework for it by promoting westernization and at the same time striving to preserve the traditional Thai arts.