A well known artist shows his devotion to the King
Since the death of the King, a few weeks ago, Thailand has gone into what will be a long period of mourning. Street art is now starting to reflect the general feeling of Thais related to his passing. I have written, on a number of occasions, about the significance and beauty of Thai street art. For example, back in February, I wrote a piece on street art that looked at some of the latest examples. It’s not surprising then that the death of the King has prompted some of Bangkok’s best street artists to add their skills to the general outpouring of love for their departed King.
One of the best known street artists is a guy named Bon (Danaiphat Lersputtitrakan) who has built a huge reputation, not only in Bangkok, but also all over Southeast Asia. Just after the King’s death, Bon started to produce some work that commemorated and celebrated the life of the King. Unlike so many North American graffiti artists, who mock leaders and systems, Thai street artists, while often deriding politicians, have generally respected the Royal Family.
The work Bon has produced since the King’s death is really evocative and wonderful to look at. I have pulled some of these latest memorial works from the web so that you can see how one of Thailand’s best known street artists is commemorating the passing of the King.