Monster and Me

Abstract

           The creative research project “Monsters and Me” aims to convey my personal life experiences through contemporary art that reflects the loneliness, alienation, and imperfections of life resulting from my chronic illness—psoriasis—which has been experienced since childhood. "Monsters” are employed as symbolic representations of the inner self during childhood, expressing the vulnerability of that period shaped by illness and the anxiety of being unaccepted by society. The work also connects to environmental issues that aggravate my condition, such as pollution, PM2.5 dust, and climate change.

           The creative research process includes exploring and analyzing conceptual frameworks to develop imagery related to the origins and appearance of the monsters—from initial sketches to production. This involves experimenting with various techniques and materials to create both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artworks. The objectives are:

1. to create works that reflect the inner emotions affected by illness through monsters that symbolize myself, and
2. to experiment with new and unfamiliar techniques and materials, allowing the acquired understanding to be applied to future art teaching.

           A total of 52 pieces were produced using techniques such as painting, drawing, sculpting, wood carving, and bronze casting. The primary monster character I created was inspired by the butterfly—an emblem of beauty that is fragile in the face of change.

           The conceptual foundation of this body of work is articulated through the idea that “loneliness and alienation are the monsters within the mind.” The researcher’s long-standing attitude toward artistic practice—namely, that imperfection embodies the beauty of life—serves not only as a working principle but also as a personal life philosophy. This perspective reflects an acceptance of the inherent uncertainty of nature and reality.

           When this attitude is integrated with the central conceptual framework, the resulting artworks convey a sense of “suffering in the dimension of hope.” The series communicates an inner solitude while simultaneously suggesting the possibility of emotional resilience. Throughout the processes of research and artistic creation, the internal cognitive and reflective journey became an opportunity for self-exploration. This gradual unfolding led to a sense of emotional release and partial healing. Although the works reflect the pain of loneliness, the act of creation itself is characterized by vibrant colors and expressive visual energy.

           Notably, the form of the “monster” evolves throughout the series. Its appearance gradually softens, transforming toward a gentler and more childlike figure, particularly in the later stages of production. This visual transformation symbolizes an internal process of reconciliation and emotional easing. Formally, the entire body of work is situated within the genre of Pop Surrealism. The visual language features cartoon-like characters that appear cute and approachable, yet subtly embody strangeness and melancholy. The primary technique employed in the creation of these works is acrylic painting.

           Under this conceptual and expressive approach, a total of 52 completed works were produced. One of the pieces was submitted to an international academic exhibition and, after evaluation by expert reviewers, was selected for presentation. At the opening ceremony, it was announced as the highest-rated work, receiving The Excellence Award 2023 from the International Art, Design and Architecture Exhibition 2023 (ADA) Thailand. This recognition reflects both the aesthetic success and the clarity of the conceptual framework acknowledged by expert evaluators. Therefore, this research project fulfills its intended objectives.