Why did you choose to study fine art?
I love it and I think I’m good at it. Not that I’m a master, but that I convey a message in my drawings.

What is the message behind the piece that won the Panasonic contest?
My goal was to represent Thai society from my point of view. It’s full of small details about social rankings and how people live together. This work was inspired by Thai mural paintings on temple walls that tell a story; I used components of that tradition as a way to tell a story about modern Thai society.

In your view, what makes a work of art good?
It must satisfy the artist. If the one who drew it is happy with it, it’s a good work. There’s no need to contribute anything to society. Generating ideas or thoughts in people is only a side effect.

Do you think you were destined to be an artist?
No. There’s no such thing. I think everyone has a certain amount of creativity; the important thing is how one uses it.

If you were not an artist, what would you be?
I would be a construction worker. My father is a construction worker, and if I wasn’t interested in art, I would just work with him. I’m lucky that my family can support me. Some of my friends have financial problems that make it hard for them to work at what they want to do. A canvas, a frame and pastels…these cost a lot.

Why do you think the Panasonic contest committee selected your work?
Because of my gradual improvement. They didn’t just see “Sawan Rumrai” and decide to award me first prize; they considered my past works too. That’s not the only way, though—it’s possible to win with one really brilliant piece.

Who is your idol?
There are so many, but if I had to choose one person it would be Ajarn Panya Vijinthanasarn. I adore how he makes Thai fine art look modern. I wish I could smoothly mix the essence of Thai tradition in my works and make Thai fine art become contemporary like he does­.