The well-known Thai comedian puts his artistic side on display with a thought-provoking question

“Note” Udom Taepanich is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated Thai standup comedians, best known for his 12 solo comedy show series, Diew, which never failed to become the talk of the town as soon as they were released. During his shows, fans may have noticed the colourful art displayed as sculptures on the stage, but not many realise that those were actually the product of Note’s own creativity.

An artist who follows his own heart, Note’s works are always bright, colourful, and playful in nature. According to the artist, art is like a playground for him to have fun—a place where he is free to experiment with techniques and colours without rules or constraints. Note says he has never liked to paint according to studied art theories. So instead, he opts to make art in a similar manner to that of a child trusting his own creativity and instinct.

Udom Taepanich

As such, in this latest solo exhibition titled, “I Need a Life Coach”, Note asks a simple question to visiting folks: Can art remain innocent as we grow up? The more artists keep creating and exploring their minds, the more their skills are honed. However, sometimes a sort of confidence to create freely disappears as they get older. They get more critical of their art and what they show to the world instead of just doing it for their own happiness. Can they still find happiness through the process of creating art as before, or is that concept long gone?

In the exhibition, you will find paintings and sculptures that Note created for himself, tapping into his inner child and bringing out the monsters and creatures of his imagination without concern for whether they conform to the norms of the art world or not. As you walk along the corridors and see the bright coloured creations placed in contrast to the dark background, you may find yourself wondering if there’s a hidden meaning behind all of these works or if it’s just the mind of a child on display—and that is precisely what Note has planned for his exhibition to do.

“I Need a Life Coach” is up for viewing until July 24, 2022 at the RCB Gallery on the 2nd Floor of River City Bangkok. Entry is free of charge. Visit rivercitybangkok.com or call 02-237-0077 for more information.