Artist Talk with Sasitorn Amornwachiramongkol
A conversation on contrast, softness, and artistic influences after her exhibition at ATT19.
Sasitorn Amornwachiramongkol, Thumb war. Credits: the artist
Q: First of all, thank you for your time. I’d like to start this brief interview by discussing what I believe is one of the key elements of your artistic work—contrast. Contrast appears in your titles, such as 'The Power of Softness,' as well as in the form of your work, where your figures embody both a certain formality—often following what feels almost like a choreographed group dynamic—and a softness in their gestures. Why these contrasts?
A: Thanks for having me! I truly believe that mixing different ideas is at the heart of my art, and it makes the creative process enjoyable. When I pull together bits from various sources, it creates something unique. I love the concept of contrast, where things can be charming yet a little strange at the same time. This encourages people to question and think. It’s really special when viewers reflect on their own experiences and what they see in my work. The final result of my painting can vary, as the process itself shapes my thoughts and ideas.
Q: From a stylistic perspective, it seems to me that your work is partly rooted in traditional Thai Ayutthaya painting, which you then apply to a contemporary art context. Would you agree, or am I off track? Are there any artists you particularly identify with or that inspired you?
A: I didn’t mean to directly link my work to traditional Thai Ayutthaya painting, but I understand why you see those connections. Growing up in Thailand, I think it’s natural for me to absorb that culture. It’s also interesting that many viewers say my work reminds them of ancient Egyptian murals. I was fascinated by ancient Egyptian art history when I was a student, and it definitely influenced me. I enjoy hearing how people interpret my art in different ways, reflecting influences that I might have forgotten about.
Sasitorn Amornwachiramongkol, Squares in scare. Credits: the artist
Q: As we touched on earlier, 'softness' is a recurring element in your work. Is this a deliberate stance in response to contemporary society? Is softness a political act?
A: I truly love softness in all its forms, physically and mentally. I believe this idea connects to many aspects of society, including political issues. Softness can challenge harshness and promote love and understanding. I want my art to celebrate this idea, making people feel calm and reminding them of its importance in our world today.
Q: I read that you have worked in the film industry and that this has had an influence on your creative development. Do you see your paintings as frames from a film that goes, or do you view the two mediums as entirely separate?
A: It’s a bit tricky to separate the two. Both film and painting inspire me and shape my imagination. Every painting comes from what I’ve seen and experienced, blending all those influences together.
Sasitorn Amornwachiramongkol, Pale blue eyes. Credits: the artist
Q: The human figure plays a central role in your work. Is this an exploration of the individual experience, or do you approach it from a collective perspective?
A: I start with my own experiences when creating the human figures in my work. But what’s really cool is how viewers connect their own stories to my art. This sharing of experiences creates a collective journey, allowing us to relate to each other’s feelings and thoughts.
Sasitorn Amornwachiramongkol, On the line again. Credits: the artist
Q: How do you view the current contemporary art scene in Bangkok? Are there any artists of your generation you are particularly fond of?
A: The art scene in Bangkok is exciting. I really like Apichatpong Weerasethakul, Kawita Vatanajyankur, Korakrit Arunanondchai. The creativity in our city continues to inspire me, and I can’t wait to see where it all goes next.
Q: Thank you for your time, and all the best for what’s to come next.
About the Artist
Sasitorn Amornwachiramongkol graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts, Sculpture Department at Chiang Mai University. She recently participated in the group exhibition O.R.G.Y. (Our Revolution for Greater Youth) at ATT19 and currently has her works on display at Central Chidlom.
Sasitorn Amornwachiramongkol. Credits: ATT19
You can find more of Sasitorn's work at her Instagram