Chirawat

"When I was a child, I wasn't good at school. Every day after classes, I had to help my parents selling clothes at the market until I went to college. At that time, I didn't know what I wanted to study. I don't know why I decided to major in art because I was so bad at it.

"I'm Chirawat Kokiatarpa, but my friends call me Golf. My parents are clothing merchants. One day, I met Mr. Sangka Choomtam, who lived near our house. He is a very good artist who paints in watercolor and oils. For a year, he taught me and that really changed my point of view about art. I have learned so much from him. I eventually received a BA in fine art from Chiang Mai University.

"I've always admired the beauty of nature and this theme is always in mind when I am painting. Nature has become my main source of inspiration.

"I'm straightforward person but my emotions change easily. I love to learn new things, especially new styles of painting. I am easygoing and lead a simple lifestyle.

"Today, I am an artist. I rent a house, stay with my girlfriend and work at home. I also craft custom frames. I sell my paintings in the street market and am always happy when someone buys my work.

"In 2005, my work appeared in my thesis exhibit, and I also won a gold prize in watercolor painting that same year. These experiences have given me more confidence and happiness."