THE ART OF REBIRTH

An ad executive transforms his career to create works that highlight nature's resilience

- STORY: SUWITCHA CHAIYONG

When Thirasak Tanapatanakul was worldwide co-chairman and chief creative officer at an advertising agency, his creativity led the agency to win many prestigious international awards including the Cannes Lions, D&AD Pencils and Clio Awards.

However, he realised that the advertising world was the reason why his four-year-old son kept crying for the latest smartphone. Thirasak and his wife Jaruwan decided to establish Burg Barn Buri in Khao Yai in 2009, so that his daughter and son could be close to nature.

Burg Barn Buri offers activities for families and schools such as growing rice, learning about local trees and animals, and art activities.

Three years ago, Thirasak created his first woodcut artwork. He became more serious about art when he teamed up with other artists including Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch, Sriwan Janehuttakarnkit and Naidee Changmoh to organise a group exhibition titled “Life”. The exhibition displayed at an art space in Burg Barn Buri.

"I worked as an art director before, so I was interested in art. Art is a good source of inspiration and when we focus on artwork, it lifts our spirits and we can forget about hardships," said Thirasak.

Thirasak exhibits a total of four art pieces in “ReBirth” at Tay Songwat, the 2nd floor of the cafe, and “Nature Speaks” at the restaurant Baan Rimnam Songwat.

“ReBirth” displays two main installations. The first, ReBirth, features interactive art inspired by mountains and wildlife that were victims of a forest fire. The stainless steel installation, which floats in the middle of the room, appears in a form of a mountain structure. Under the mountain, there are piles of charcoal from burned branches and trees.

Once viewers are inside the interactive installation, they must use a black light provided to search for animals and insects hidden within this burning mountain. The installation reflects the importance of mountains and forests.