From Sight to Insight: An Artistic Journey

When external vision leads to internal perception. “Sight” refers to the ability to see with the eyes, while “Insight” refers to a deeper understanding or inner perception.
Thus, “Sight into Insight” signifies the transformation of physical vision into profound understanding, where what is seen evolves into emotions, experiences, or concepts. It represents self-discovery and learning something new from what is observed.
Art reflects the “seeing through the mind” of the artist. Artworks act as a medium for contexts that cannot be conveyed through language. Sometimes, art captures complex emotions that are too difficult to express through words.
For example, the abstract art full of techniques and the powerful colours in Therdkiat Wangwatcharakul’s work serve as an emotional record, inspired by the positive impact of nature.
“In the past 2-3 years, I’ve become more focused on my health, exercising in the park almost every day, and travelling to places where nature is vast and breathtaking. Being surrounded by trees, various species of flowers has drawn me into the vibrant colours of these flowers, which became the inspiration for this series of artworks.” – Therdkiat Wangwatcharakul
From concerns about his paintings being distorted in the photography process, Niam Mawornkanong’s efforts to resolve this led him to a new perspective, resulting in an artistic exploration of light, colour, and memories interconnected in a new form.
“This series originates from small anxieties surrounding the photography of my paintings. Typically, the gallery responsible for my pieces is tasked with capturing them, yet sometimes the photographs can distort the actual artwork. This distortion, while commonplace, occasionally alters the mood and atmosphere of the paintings. Initially, it was merely a way to vent my worries, but unexpectedly, I began to enjoy it. I painted more and more, brainstorming ways to express myself while delving into the root of the problem. These processes prompted me to reflect on my perception of various aspects of life, a life spent hours staring at images on a screen. Through this series of paintings, I hope you see traces of suspended communication, traces of lights that cannot quite blend together. It may contain traces of memories from the past and traces of efforts to adjust life to the rhythm of this world.” – Niam Mawornkanong
For Nannanin Rueangyoungmee, spending much of her life in the hospital since childhood, the confinement of her body to a bed and her inability to engage in activities she wished to do led her to art. Imagining life through the curved windows of the hospital became an anchor, giving meaning to those moments and helping her accept her reality.
“Looking through the hospital window, I would imagine another life, different from being confined to recovery. This led to the creation of relaxing doodle art, a medium to communicate the feelings and dreams that flourished while gazing through that window.” – Nannanin Rueangyoungmee
“Sight into Insight” is an exhibition that brings together the crystallisation of human vision, both external and internal, and presents it to expand the boundaries of human perception. It invites viewers to go beyond limitations and deepen their sensory experience, starting with the eyes and extending into a more profound understanding, expressed through works of art.
About the Artists
Niam Mawornkanong
Surachai Mawornkanong, also known as Niam Mawornkanong, is an established Thai artist specialising in intricate painting that often projects a quality reminiscent of well-assembled oil works. He uses his art to captivate audiences’ attention then set them free to explore their own subconsciousness.
Though possessing degrees in philosophy and fine art, the majority of his technique is self-taught and complements the fact that he is colourblind. His work also displays a versatile vision ranging between abstract principles and realistic portraiture.
Therdkiat Wangwatcharakul
From the inception of the dot to the evolution into intricate lines, Therdkiat’s artistic journey manifests in a unique amalgamation of techniques characterised by the manipulation of lines. His artistic expression stems from a profound sense of liberation and elation.
Therdkiat’s artistic odyssey commenced during his studies at Silpakorn University, where he garnered accolades domestically and internationally, including notable distinctions from China and Singapore. His artistic were serendipitous occurrences in his personal narrative, which significantly influenced his creative methodology. For him, the uninhibited flow of colour encapsulates an inherent allure, as he espouses the intrinsic beauty of unrestrained expression.
Nannanin Rueangyoungmee
The stories through the lines depict various moments in life, both good and bad, combined into a form of relaxing art (doodle art). The artist learned this during her time spent in the hospital, which has now been transformed into artwork.
Now open to the public, the “Sight into Insight” exhibition offers a profound exploration of human perception, showcasing the crystallisation of both external and internal vision. Through its collection, the exhibition seeks to expand the boundaries of how we perceive the world, pushing beyond limitations and deepening sensory experiences. It all begins with the eyes, which act as a bridge to a deeper understanding, conveyed masterfully through art.
“Sight into Insight” runs from today until 23 October 2024, at RCB Galleria 4, 2nd floor, River City Bangkok.