Art and Artists
The Mysterious Charm of Chiangrai
million baht for some of his art works. You need at least an hour to peruse his paintings and collect souvenirs. Kositpipat is now the most respected provincial artist in Chiang Rai. His style has been duplicated everywhere such as in the new clock tower in the city of Chiang Rai and the new bridge of Chiang rai.(The White Temple opens daily from 0800 to 1700, free of charge, but requests visitors to dress politely by covering their shoulders and knees. This rule of etiquette applies to every temple visit in Thailand.)
Chiang Rai is also the home of the Emerald Buddha or ‘Pra Kaew Morakot’ . The Emerald Buddha is believed to have been discovered here in Fourteenth Century before it traveled to many different kingdoms. Eventually it settled in Bangkok. The temple where it once resided now features a newly built museum in the Lanna style and the wonderful Ho Kham equipped with stunning paintings.
On the other side of town is the Black House owned by Dr. Thawan Dajjani. The 72-year-old artist opens his house and compound for visitors to appreciate his collection of art works which are most mysterious but very interesting, consisting as they do of animal skulls and skin. The Black House is part of a group of his Lanna style houses, each one houses farmers fish traps, utensils, animal skins or horns. The main one displays his abstract paintings. (The Black House usually opens between 0800 to 1700, but closes at lunchtime.)
Located north of Mae Chan on Road No 1 to Mae Sai, The Golden Horse Monastery is rated as a ‘MUST SEE’ among many different travel magazines. Tucked away in a small mountain, away from townships near the border of Myanmar, the temple is similar to Sao Lin where the monks and novices are being trained in martial arts. I learned that monks and novices here are trained to appreciate the art of Thai boxing. Every evening, the temple master conducts Thai boxing dances as well as three rounds of Thai boxing. A proper curriculum of Thai boxing has been posted on the board for the young novices to use as a reference.
According to the head monk, it’s only an exercise but it is also part of their mental training. It was amazing also to see monks and novices using horses as the preferred mode of transportation in the hilly terrain around the temple. All of them seem to be very agile and good at riding horse. Given the mountainous topography, the monks need a horse to bring them up and down the mountain and help them to patrol the forest. The most interesting activity is watching a caravan of warrior monks and novices riding their horses from the mountain to receive alms in the early morning from the devout Buddhist villagers. The temple has done a lot for the tribal people, by recruiting tribal children to become monks and teach Buddhism to their parents who have not really been exposed to the Thai language. The tribal children also have the opportunity to go to school in the temple and can be assimilated in Thai society well.
Located in between laos and Myanmar and not very far from China, Chiang rai is home to at least five diverse groups of minorities who either once migrated into Thailand or who have been living and migrating back and forth between Thailand and its neighbouring countries. For the last fifteen years ago, the minorities have been seeking a better life by establishing both several private and public projects.
One of the most important is the royal project which was implemented to enable the minorities to be recognized economically and socially. The royal project at Doi Tung initiated by Her Princess Mother some fifteen years ago clearly illustrates how much the royal family has done to better the quality of life for the minorities.
Gardens at Doi Tung, Chiang RaiDoi Tung nowadays is a symbol of the close relationship between the Lord of Thailand and the minorities of Chiang Rai. Its beautiful garden draws several thousand tourists a year to appreciate the beauty of Chiang Rai and the sustainability of people living on the mountain. This helps them assimilate into Thai society well and live together in harmony. However, their cultures and folktales have been preserved and promoted to maintain their strong dignity which they share proudly with visitors. Minorities are not only interesting in terms of their external dress and colouful ceremonies, but their belief and practice of agriculture. The Chiang Rai provincial organization has recognized the importance of its diversity.
Before visiting the actual villages of the minorities, tourists are encouraged to gain some basic information from the Hill Tribe Museum at C&C. this museum provides an excellent overall picture of the hill tribes and their history. All of the places I mentioned above do not attract as many tourists as the Golden Triangle.
Chiang Rai is infamous for its past history of opium trading, migration of the Haw Chinese of the 93 KMT battalion, and the border trading town of Mae Sai. The Golden Triangle is the point where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet and provide a convenient spot for opium traffickers to conduct their illicit trade. However, the story of opium trading goes back to the great opium war between England and China in the 19th Century. After being forced to open up the country to receive tobacco and opium produced in India from England, the Chinese government equipped its population to grow opium and tobacco in order not to lose out in the ensuing drug wars.
In the early 20th Century, the migration after the cultural revolution in China brought in those minorities who have learned the know how on drug dealing from China. The Chinese KMT were the greatest opium traders during the old days and those armies in Shan and elsewhere who needed to liberate their states from the oppressive regime were all involved in the opium trade. This page of history also referred to ‘Air America’ who were engaged in the opium business in the Golden Triangle. Believe it or not, the Hmong in Laos helped the CIA fight against the communist in Laos and were using the profits of opium trading to finance the purchase of weapons. The story of opium has has become a fading memory but the lesson learned is simply not to repeat it again.
However, the place and its history bring tourists back again and again like a bees to a honey pot, only this time, to participate in an equally insidious activity. The Golden Triangle has now turned into a casino. Tourists come here to lose their money before setting off to Mai sai to spend their remaining funds on counterfeit Chinese DVDs and other amazing goods at the duty free shop just across the bridge leading from Mai sai to Burma.
Apart from the above mentioned attractions, Chiang Rai has many other numerous attractions to visit – such as the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand, an opium museum, a Chinese village on the mountain, and numerous hot springs. Given the choice of places to visit, Chiang Rai is definitely worth more than a sojourn of a few days, offering much more than Chiang Mai and other provinces in Thailand.
By Dr.Kris Dhiradityakul
[email protected]
International contemporary artist Anna Chekh presents “Diversity of Shadow Man.” The artist showcases her trendy 3D art objects, a large Shadow Man sculpture, digital art, art prints, and innovative 3D pictures at the ArtVentureNFT gallery (1st floor, Icon Siam).
Step into the captivating world of “Shadow Man” by international contemporary artist Anna Chekh, where her iconic art character unveils the rich tapestry of her artistic vision. This enigmatic figure symbolizes curiosity and exploration of the world while steadfastly guarding his private life and values, embodying a faceless hero for the public. Shadow Man reflects the spirit of our generation, resonating with profound insights and captivating storytelling.
The exhibition features a collection of unique art objects from Chekh’s acclaimed ‘Shadow Man’ series, previously showcased at prestigious international venues including DIFC Art Nights in Dubai and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Soon, this compelling collection will be presented in Miami, New York, and Venice.
Alongside the ‘Shadow Man’ series, Anna Chekh presents a captivating selection of paintings, art prints, and digital artworks. Delve into the symbolic narrative crafted by Chekh, blending neo-symbolism with surrealistic elements to offer a profound visual journey into the human psyche and societal themes.
As a multidisciplinary artist, Anna Chekh extends her creative vision across various mediums, from traditional canvases and sculptures to cutting-edge NFTs, interactive installations, and innovative web 3.0 projects.
Her artworks, celebrated for their depth and innovation, have been showcased at esteemed venues worldwide from New York and Tokyo to Bangkok and Dubai, including the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris.
Anna has received numerous prestigious awards, including Best Innovative NFT 2024 and Best Phygital NFT 2023 (Dubai, Burj Khalifa).
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ART Chiang Rai Exhibition June 1st Showcasing: The Best of Watercolors
ART Chiang Rai Exhibition June 1st Showcasing: The Best of Watercolors
In a digital age where personal and business branding evolves at lightning speed, one tactile marketing tool has remained as relevant and effective as ever: custom vinyl stickers. Versatile, durable, and colorful, these stickers offer an impactful way to convey messages, demonstrate personality, and even enhance brand visibility. This detailed exploration of custom vinyl stickers will reveal why they continue to be a preferred choice for both individuals and businesses, detailing their uses, benefits, and creative possibilities.
The Allure of Vinyl Stickers
Vinyl stickers aren’t just popular; they are a phenomenon in their own right. Their robustness and aesthetic appeal make them ideal for a wide range of applications, from car decals to storefront decorations. Here’s why they stand out:
Durability: Vinyl is a strong, flexible material resistant to environmental factors like UV rays and moisture. This makes vinyl stickers perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, as they don’t fade quickly or peel off easily.
Quality: The quality of printing on vinyl is generally higher than on other materials. Colors appear brighter and more vibrant, which is crucial for capturing attention and conveying specific styles or brands.
Customization: The adaptability of vinyl allows for a myriad of customization options in size, shape, color, and finish. Whether you need a glossy finish to catch the light or a matte finish to reduce glare, vinyl stickers can be tailored to meet specific requirements.
Uses of Custom Vinyl Stickers
The uses of custom vinyl stickers are as varied as they are imaginative. Here are some of the most popular applications:
Personal Use:
- Vehicle Decals: Custom vinyl stickers are often used to decorate cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, allowing enthusiasts to showcase their unique style or membership in clubs and communities.
- Home Decor: Vinyl stickers can be applied to walls, furniture, and appliances, making them an easy way to revitalize a space without permanent changes.
- Personal Belongings: Laptops, phone cases, and water bottles are commonly adorned with vinyl stickers to personalize everyday items.
Business Use:
- Branding: Businesses use custom vinyl stickers as a cost-effective branding tool. Placing logo stickers on products, packaging, and even at physical locations enhances brand visibility.
- Promotions: Companies often give away vinyl stickers as part of promotional campaigns. Because they are seen as a value-added item, stickers can improve customer satisfaction and retention.
- Wayfinding: Vinyl stickers are excellent for directional purposes within businesses, helping guide customers and creating a more organized space.
The Design Process: From Concept to Completion
Creating custom vinyl stickers is an art form that involves several steps to ensure the final product perfectly captures the intended aesthetic and functional needs.
Designing the Artwork: The first step involves designing the artwork. This can be done using graphic design software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop. The design must consider the intended size of the sticker to ensure that details are not lost in translation from screen to print.
Choosing the Right Vinyl: There are different types of vinyl, each suitable for different conditions. For instance, cast vinyl is better for outdoor use due to its ability to withstand harsher conditions, whereas calendared vinyl might be sufficient for indoor use.
Printing and Cutting: Once the design is finalized, it’s printed using high-quality digital printers. After printing, the stickers are cut into the desired shape. Precision cutting is essential, especially for complex designs or shapes.
Quality Control: Before the stickers are packaged and sent out, they undergo quality control checks to ensure that every sticker meets the set standards of durability, color accuracy, and adhesion.
Creative Ideas for Vinyl Sticker Designs
Seasonal Themes: Capitalize on holiday seasons by creating themed stickers that can be used as part of promotional packages or as seasonal decorations.
Inspirational Quotes: Stickers with motivational quotes are perennial favorites. They can serve as personal reminders or inspirational gifts for others.
Artistic Collaborations: Collaborating with artists to create limited-edition sticker designs can add an exclusivity factor that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts.
Eco-Friendly Messages: With increasing awareness of environmental issues, stickers promoting eco-friendly practices or green branding can resonate well with a conscientious audience.
Conclusion
The charm of custom vinyl stickers lies in their simplicity and the profound impact they can have. Whether used to inject a bit of fun into personal items, add a professional touch to business products, or anything in between, vinyl stickers are an excellent choice for those looking to make a statement in a durable, customizable, and cost-effective way. As they continue to stick around in various forms, it’s clear that when it comes to making a mark, few options are as enduring—and adhesive—as vinyl stickers.
Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Huaqi Liu, a talented artist whose journey into the world of painting began at the age of 16. Over the years, Liu has explored various artistic styles, beginning with traditional Chinese painting. As he delved deeper into his craft, his journey led him to evolve his artistic expression, and Liu’s passion for painting endured and flourished. This evolution has been marked by a natural progression, driven by his inner creative spark and ongoing exploration of different artistic mediums and techniques.
Q: Could you discuss some of the awards and recognition you’ve received in recent years, such as the Mayoral Certificate of Recognition from the City of Baltimore in 2022?
Huaqi Liu: The Mayoral Certificate of Recognition was my project where I taught children to draw and handled technical aspects like video tech. We connected children from Baltimore and Korea through artwork exchanges, culminating in an exhibition of the children’s art.
Q: In 2023, you gave a lecture titled “Clouds and Chinese Destiny” at the GFA department of the Maryland Institute College of Art. What was the focus of this lecture?
Huaqi Liu: I was invited by a friend who teaches at MICA. I shared my experiences from struggling to integrate into the American environment during my undergraduate studies to eventually applying for exhibitions. During the interactive session, students were interested in my projects, which led to discussions about my artwork. I shared the story about why I chose clouds as my subject, and what’s the meaning in Chinese traditional aesthetic.
Q: What style or genre of painting are you currently studying or practicing, and how would you define your own style?
Huaqi Liu: I don’t confine myself to a particular genre. Six years ago, I might have called myself an abstract artist, but now I feel it’s unnecessary to frame myself in that way.
Q: Who are some of your favorite and least favorite artists, and why?
Huaqi Liu: My top favorite artist is René Magritte because of his journey from wealth to poverty and his determination to pursue art with just a pen. I admire his innovation, especially his use of light strokes. Monet’s use of color and brushstrokes also influences my work, capturing the atmosphere and romanticism that I seek. I’m not fond of art that depicts violence or explicit sexuality as I find these themes aesthetically tiresome. I prefer art that allows for interpretation and symbolism, fostering a connection between the artist and the viewer.
Q: You have numerous publications, such as the academic paper “Cloud-infused artistry: unraveling the enigmatic bond between destiny and oil painting” in 2024. Could you share the significance of these awards and publications, along with the stories behind them?
Huaqi Liu: “Cloud-infused artistry” is an academic paper I wrote at the end of 2023, published in the CPCI journal. It provides a detailed explanation of my artwork, including my techniques using clouds and colors, and explores contemporary artists’ interest in clouds. For instance, there’s a contemporary artist who visualizes weather patterns with computer-generated lines, reflecting my own interest in clouds and their connection to human fate.
Q: How do you understand the role of this art form in society, and what value does it bring to you in terms of joy or fulfillment?
Huaqi Liu: Painting is a form of emotional output for me. It’s a sanctuary in the chaos of life, allowing me to express myself authentically. Though it can be stressful, I find solace in the process. Through my art, I aim to showcase my cultural contributions as an immigrant in America and my appreciation for multiculturalism. I hope when people see my work, they can resonate with me, that’s my goal.
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