paintings

Buddha´s head appears in profile in this sublime study by Tanachai Ekuruchaitep. Lichen adds texture and realism to the sculpted stone image, reflecting the ancient atmosphere of Khmer temples. The artist is inspired by the Sukothai Buddha images whose style originated in Ceylon. Buddha's serenity is intensified by the dark background.

Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist nation, filled with breathtaking ancient temples, pagodas and other architectural wonders constructed to worship Buddha. In Thailand images of Buddha play an important role beyond mere decoration. They are traditionally placed within the home in special locations, such as shrines or pedestals, to help facilitate everyday religious worship.

Brahmin and Buddhist cosmology overlap in the veneration of Ganesha. In Thailand, the Hindu deity is known as Phra Pikanet or Phra Phikhanesawora. Tanachai Ekuruchaitep depicts the auspicious lord as a stone sculpture where lichen attest to the passing centuries.

With slender grace, three cho fa appear on a gilded background. These are the elongated triangular finials capping the gables on Thai temples and palaces. Tanachai Ekuruchaitep depicts the mesmerizing forms like shadows. "This springs from Thai imagination," he says. "I wanted to present its easy line, gentle but powerful. Something that tells about the ancient times."

Rising upward like a twisting flame, this graceful image recalls the symbol of a Thai temple, seen from a distance. Known as a cho fa, it is the elongated triangular finials capping the gables on Thai monastic and palace buildings. Tanachai Ekuruchaitep depicts the silvery form and its shadow on a gilded background. "I wanted to present its easy line, gentle but powerful," the artist says.

Regal and powerful, an elephant strides purposefully through the golden darkness beneath a full moon. Tanachai Ekuruchaitep depicts the mighty pachyderm in the style of ancient paintings. Once favored by the kings of old Siam, the elephant became a national emblem seen on royal thrones as well as on the national flag. Fascinated by the history and culture of Thailand, Ekuruchaitep wishes for his art to bring continuance of the past.