Artist's dreams come to fruition
Self-starter Sopanut's pursuit of excellence helps him bag innovator award

Following one's dream entails the risk that there may not be success waiting down the road.

However, that hasn't stopped people like Sopanut "New" Somrattanakul, an art innovator from doing what he loves. Sopanut has been lucky to reap the fruit of his passion and dedication.

But unlike many artists fired up by sentimentality, he works his art magic by using an alchemy combining aesthetics with practicality.

Realising a life goal takes tremendous time and effort. At the age of 25, Sopanut decided to quit his job in an advertising firm, knowing full well he had sacrificed his main source of financial security in exchange for an interest that was his true calling.

Sopanut took a different tack and devoted his time and energy putting together a signature artwork themed Jib Way La (Take a Sip of Time), which went on to win the prestigious Innovative Craft Award.

The young artist wanted to apply his artistry in the creation of items that people can actually use, touch and feel, and not just be confined to art galleries. His attention turned to a field where the artworks he designs are afforded "visibility" -- in front of people, including foreign visitors -- on the walls.

That marked the origin of the theme of this year's Innovative Craft Award whose concept was "Surreal Hospitality", which provided a perfect fit for Sopanut's artworks.

He envisages his artworks showing off elements of metals alongside natural features such as a cross-section of tree roots. The works can be displayed at both hotel and guesthouse lobbies.

Sopanut has not let his creativity stop at his current presentation of art creations. The thought of how to branch out and make his artwork accessible to consumers, similar to the line of ready-to-assemble merchandise sold by the global Scandinavian brand, has also crossed his mind.

Sopanut said his trip to a seaside resort sparked his artistic idea. He had time to himself as he was alone on a beach. Despite the serenity of the area, there was something dynamic going on as the waves washed gently against the shores.

A lot of what goes unnoticed can hold sentimental or intrinsic value. If people can create something from what they have neglected or overlooked using a set of materials that are thought to be the least compatible, their creations could be one of a kind and deliver useful functions.

He recalled his moments by the sea were as relaxing and rewarding. "I wanted to capture it in my mind, just like when we take a sip of good coffee. That's how I came up with my artwork title," Sopanut said.

Read more https://www.bangkokpost.com/life/arts-and-entertainment/1727915/artists-dreams-come-to-fruition.