Artist

Chusak Srikwan

Born in 1983, Thailand.

Chusak Srikwan born in Songkhla Province. He has a professional background in Nang Talung (shadow puppetry), both in puppet carving and puppenteering, enabling him to become more than just a visual artist borrowing gimmicks from the traditional-style theatre. Trained in puppeteering by master such as Jaroon Vongkrajang, Chusak embarked on a journey of self-learning before he set up his own puppet troupe when he was only 16 years of age.

Chusak Srikwan, is pushing the boundaries and possibilities of the Southern performance Style further by freeing his two-dimensional puppets from their theatrical contexts, giving each a personality of their own. His obsession with Nang Talung, together with his training at Silpakorn University’s Thai Art department, equipped him with a balanced combination of contemporary artistic skills and traditional puppet theatre knowledge. His works have been awarded both silver and bronze medals in the prestigious Thailand National Art Competition, among other accolades.

Chusak’s work is inspired by 'Nang Talung'  the shadow puppetry that is part of the culture of the south of Thailand. His contemporary puppets comment on recent events, and the dynamics of politics and  society. The symbolism of the puppets and their ironic appearances are intended to raise awareness among the audience.


Education

2009

M.F.A. Thai Art, Faculty of Painting, Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University, Bangkok, Thailand

2006

B.F.A. Thai Art, Faculty of Painting, Sculpture and Graphic Arts, Silpakorn University, Bangkok, Thailand

Awards

2007

2nd Prize : Silver Medal mixed media in The 53 nd National Art Works Exhibition