Studies in Contrast

He’s a contemporary Thai artist known the world over for outstanding collections that bring studied introspection to the appeal of the human face and form.

Paitoon Jumee’s imposing faces possess a hypnotic, ethereal quality, contrasting both masculine and feminine characteristics.

They highlight delicate facial lines, such as the neck, eyes and jawline, while using potent colours and rough textures.

As well as drawing inspiration from the human form for his portraits, he often highlights Buddhism, with facial emotions intensified by bright colours.

And in the same vein as the facial portraits, his figurative male nudes are both strong and texturally intricate.

These contrasts are fundamental across his collections, which represent elements of traditional Thai aesthetics while maintaining a contemporary feel that’s appreciated by viewers around the world.

Paitoon’s strong Thai roots and artistic training are perhaps the reason for the prominence of Thai elements throughout his work.

Born in 1978, he studied at the Thai Vijitsil Art School from 1993-1996, later graduating from Pochang University in 1998 after receiving training in multiple disciplines including lithography, sculpture and xylography.

Of all his collections, his series of paintings depicting facial portraits remains the most popular.

The majority of these faces feature Buddhist-inspired calm, serene expressions, often with closed eyes and pan-Asian features, such as almond-shaped eyes.

The use of a drip technique, among other textural effects, is considered his signature touch - flourishes that add depth and melancholy to what would otherwise appear a clean and detached portrait.

It’s this approach, and an innate sense of textural depth, that gives deep character to his work, making it instantly recognisable.

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