The connection between nature and humanity
By Morakot Ketklao, with Nabila Giovanna W

‘A Day in the Life’ is a series by A&M where we invite artists to share a day in their life through images accompanied by brief descriptions.

This month, we feature artist Morakot Ketklao (b. 1971), who is based in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Morokat introduces two recent works: ‘Sky Roof’ and ‘Organic Wall’, which are made in response to human resilience in the face of adversity. In particular, the use of thread on linen in these works symbolises optimism for repair. She also speaks about how her natural environment offers inspiration in her daily life.

Morakot Ketklao, ‘Sky Roof’, 2023, acrylic and thread on linen, 90x90cm.

Inspired by the resilience of the Palestinian people amidst the hardships of war, ‘Sky Roof’ portrays a poignant scene where families lose their homes and find solace under the sky. The painting captures the indomitable spirit and hope that transcends adversity. The sky, depicted as a vast and comforting roof, symbolises endurance and the unyielding belief in a brighter future. Through subtle hues and the warmth of sunlight, the artwork conveys a message of strength and the unwavering human spirit rising above the challenges of displacement.

‘Organic Wall’, 2023, acrylic and thread on linen, 130 x 130cm.

‘Organic Wall’ explores the transformative power of nature to soften the boundaries caused by conflict. In depicting the concrete wall dividing two lands, I envision a metamorphosis where the harsh structure evolves into an organic tapestry of life. The connecting line and organic form symbolise the potential for harmony and coexistence. Through this metaphor, the painting advocates for a shift towards understanding and unity, suggesting that a more flexible, organic boundary might eliminate the need for conflict and nurture a shared, peaceful existence between the two lands.

I love spending time with my cats on the roof of my house in the evening. It brings me peace and solace after a long day of hard work. The expanse of the sky acts as a grand roof, symbolising the vastness of life itself. I find solace in believing that the sky is like a benevolent deity, attentively listening to me and all living creatures, no matter the circumstances. Gazing at the sky revitalises my weary spirit, and I feel a profound connection with my surroundings. In those moments, the sky became my closest confidant and eternal companion.

The threading technique on linen is a practical method and a powerful symbol of fixing, hope, and awareness. Using this technique, one carefully weaves threads through the fabric, creating a strong bond that holds everything together. This fixing signifies the importance of resilience and determination in addressing challenges.

Moreover, threading on linen also represents hope. Each thread that is intricately woven into the fabric symbolises the belief that there is always a way to mend and improve things. This hope empowers individuals to persevere and find solutions, even in adversity.

Additionally, intertwining threads on linen serves as a metaphor for awareness. As the delicate strands are intertwined, individuals become more mindful of the interconnectedness of everything in life. This threading heightened awareness fosters a sense of unity, reminding us of the collective effort needed to bring about positive change.

In summary, the technique of threading on linen is not only a practical approach but also a profound symbol of fixing and hope.

As an artist, my life revolves around everything that surrounds me - the familiar comforts of my home, the companionship of my beloved cat, the radiant energy of my plants, and the ever-changing sky that serves as my ultimate muse. All of them allow me to paint a picture of a typical day in my artistic journey.

Early in the morning, I wake up to the gentle purring of my cat, who greets me with a warm nudge. As I tend to my plants, we embark on our daily routine, giving them the care and attention they need to flourish. Their green leaves and colourful blossoms breathe life into my studio, infusing it with vibrant inspiration.

Stepping into my sunlit sanctuary, the world news takes centre stage. I delve into the current events, staying informed about the day's happenings. The world's turbulent and hopeful happenings often find their way into my art. Combining my passion for the environment and social issues through painting is a way to raise awareness and inspire change.

Follow Morakot Ketklao on Instagram here and visit her website here.

Read all A Day in the Life story here.

All images are courtesy of the artist.

About the Artist

Morakot Ketklao is a Chiang Mai-based artist. She works as an Art Lecturer in the Painting Division, Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University. Morakot Ketklao's work explores connections between the personal and the shared experience of global climate change. She relates her everyday observations of her immediate environment's nuances and subtleties to those of our ever-changing planet through abstract forms. She has developed an emotive visual language that expresses her concerns about the loss of the natural world while exploring themes of compassion, empathy, and friendship, all united by our collective mourning of nature in the Anthropocene age.

Morakot has a Bachelor's degree from the Painting Division, Faculty of Fine Arts Chiang Mai University, and a Master's degree from Silpakorn University, Bangkok, Thailand. Morakot has a bachelor's degree from the Painting Division, Faculty of Fine Arts Chiang Mai University, and a Master's degree from Silpakorn University, Bangkok, Thailand. She further studies in the Miestershuler program at Leipzig School, Academe of Visual Art Leipzig, Germany. She earned a Scholarship for Master Program (Female Artist), Dresden, Germany, and a scholarship from International Placement Services Zentralstelle four Arbeitsvermittlung(ZAV.) Frankfurt am Main, Germany, while working as an art lecturer in the Faculty of Fine Arts at Chiang Mai University. She earned a Doctorate of Philosophy in Educational Technology and Communication from the Faculty of Education, Naresuan University, Thailand. She had a chance to be a Guest Professor at the Faculty of Art, Jan Dlugosz University in Czestochowa, Poland.

Ketklao exhibits her work both nationally (in Thailand) and abroad. She has held solo and group exhibitions in Thailand, Vietnam, India, Germany, Austria, Sweden, Italy, Poland, Romania, and Montenegro.