DEVELOPMENT OF FIGURATIVE PAINTINGS IN THAI’S MODERN ART 943 - 1962

Abstract

           During the year 1943 - 1962, Silpa Bhirasri was an important person who had a huge role in developing Western Art style in Thailand, both as the major founder of Silpakorn University and as one of the judges for The National Exhibition of Art. Silpa Bhirasri was a head contributor who supported and promoted a Realistic Art style along the way of Academic Art. However, the popularity of such art styles could not resist the influence of Modern Art, which was developing in the western region at the same time. Therefore, the new creations under the Modern Art styles started appearing by young Thai artists.

           When considering only in the content of the figurative painting, we will find that the development has tremendously progressed into the advancement. The factors vary from whether it is by an opportunity to study art abroad of some artists, or by perception of the information of the movement of Modern Art in western by the various medium that flows into the country. These are factors that affect the creativity and expression of new generation contemporary artists. The phenomena in the paintings of the progressive avant-garde artists such as Fua Haripitak, Sompot Upa-in and Aree Suthiphan, reflecting the influence of Modern Art that sent through the power of thought and the potential of creativity which may not be limited by the influence of Realistic Art style of Academic Art, which was the mainstream of art in that time.