Two master artists showcase their love for art with philosophy

Renowned Thai ceramic artist Bathma Kaew-Ngok and Japanese floral expressionist Naomi Daimaru unite for WOODS of masterpiece, a collaborative showcase exploring nature at Central: The Original Store, the new cultural center situated on Charoenkrung Road where Central Group’s first retail store ever was established.

The name WOODS of masterpiece is inspired by the award-winning French Nobel novelist, Romain Rolland, who wrote about the end of Beethoven’s life and how countless artists were inspired by his work to create value in the philosophy of aesthetics in art. Working together for the first time, Kaew-Ngok and Daimaru bring over 130 works of art to reflect their interpretations of philosophy and life experiences, finding common ground in their fascination for Japanese art, nature, and each other’s techniques and rituals. 

Bathma has displayed mastery and passion for ceramic sculpture since a young age and is now an artist and teacher in the craft. Sculpture and ceramics are considered highly skilled artforms as they involve the sciences of printmaking, sculpting, fire and many other disciplines and studies. His talent began to take noticeable form after receiving a scholarship to study sculpture in Japan. His work gradually became more well-known and accepted by Japanese artists, and the recognition eventually led him to having his first ceramic exhibition in Japan. Bahtma would continue to exhibit in Taiwan, South Korea, China, Singapore, the Philippines, as well as Thailand and Japan again. His work varies with the season, isn’t afraid of imperfections, and often presents elements of Japanese culture, which has made a strong impression on him as an artist. 

Naomi is a floral expressionist with over 30 years of experience under her belt. Having worked as a floral design in the US, Thailand, and Japan, she practices the art of flower arrangement in the style of the Ohara School of Ikebana and has been involved in a range of work, from interior design and styling to commercial design and art installations. 

WOODs of masterpiece is live for viewing daily on the fourth floor of Central: The Original Store, from now until October 31. Admission for the exhibition is free, however, you can also pay to participate hands-on in workshops with the artists themselves. On October 17, Bathma will be hosting a workshop on making a Japanese Yunomi tea cup while Naomi will be teaching ikebana in the style of Ohara School of Ikebana. Tickets to these workshops are priced 3,500 baht per person, inclusive of materials. Seats limited to 10 per round. 

For more information or to reserve a seat, contact 093-025-8457 or liltoey@gmail.com.