December has been declared the month for “Art for Inspiration” and perhaps no artist has inspired Thailand as much as Catleeya Asavanant, the country’s first successful artist with Down syndrome.
The 27-year-old, diagnosed with the congenital disorder arising from a chromosome defect as a baby, suffers some intellectual impairment and physical abnormalities, but not so much that it stopped her from producing 200 pieces of art for display.
The Rajanukul Institute and the National Institute of Development Administration on Dec. 1 will hold a media briefing for their “Art of Inspiration” show at the Venice Art Space of Watcharapol Ramintra, Bangkok.
The event also will be the first to feature Eakchai Vannakaew, a disabled artist.
The two will be painting and drawing on the same frame with background music performed by Down syndrome musician Chanita Thammatatchpimol. The art will be up for auction after completed to raise more funds for charity.
Catleeya has become well-known in the art world and has proven that those with Down syndrome have great potential. She has achieved a Bachelor’s degree in art from NIDA. She credits her mother in giving her the support she needed.
Over the years, she has participated in many exhibitions, in and outside of Thailand, and always tends to surprise people with her gift. She represents all people diagnosed with Down syndrome and is spreading the word that everyone has potential if you follow your dreams and never give up.
For more information, contact the Wish Group Co., Ltd., as representatives of The Art of Inspiration, or Oraphan Kaneang, PR representative at 081-909-1625 or [email protected]
