August is the month OHM celebrates their anniversary and this year it’s Sweet 16! OHM is hosting a big party in Thailand and is releasing a stunning collection of glass beads based on Thai artists work!

Release day is 30 July!

COMING OF AGE (Julie Baker and Summer)

When invited by OHM to participate in the project, an OHMistry collaboration, artist Juli Baker, and Summer selected the COMING OF AGE image. This particular artwork had been featured in a 2021 solo exhibition of the same name in Tokyo, Japan, employing acrylic paint techniques and pencil drawing on paper. The painting depicts a naked woman reclining comfortably on a grass carpet in a flower garden. Despite deviating from societal norms of beauty, the woman portrayed exudes satisfaction and pride in her authentic self, evident in the joyful smiles on her face.

Juli Baker and Summer, inspired by the fear of confronting life's changes and the pain imposed by societal beauty standards, chose this image to break free from those constraints definitively. The transformation from a painting to a 'Coming of Age' glass bead conveys a powerful message of embracing change, fluttering in the wind. It symbolizes the shift in mindset from representing one woman in society to resonating with the experiences of many women worldwide."

The paintings exude brightness and vitality, with lines that evoke a sense of freedom and cheerfulness reminiscent of summer happiness. These distinctive qualities have become the personal signature and inspiration for the name 'Juli Baker and Summer' within the art circle, adopted by the artist 'Phaan - Chanardee Chatkul Na Ayutthaya.'

Growing up in an art-loving family, Phaan received unwavering support, witnessing the glimmer of artistic expression from an early age. Determined to pursue a career in the field, Phaan graduated with a degree in fashion and textiles from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Chulalongkorn University. Over the years, Phaan has explored various formats in art, including drawing, writing illustrations, designing fabric patterns, and creating products.

ILLUSION (Tikkywow)

ILLUSION (OHM x TIKKYWOW)

Inspired by his ILLUSION painting featuring the multicolored polygonal cubic girl's face, OHM transformed it into glass beads of the same name. These beads convey the essence of the word "illusion" through intertwined and vibrant patterns. Tikkywow emphasizes that each bead is unique, with no two being alike. When individuals examine these beads, they interpret them differently, much like how others perceive us. In reality, what they see may not reflect our true identity, as perceptions can vary depending on one's perspective.

Pichet Rujiwararat, known as Tikkywow, has been intertwined with art for a lifetime. As a child, he enjoyed drawing and coloring, submitting his work to contests and winning numerous awards. Growing up, he decided to pursue studies in art. After graduating, he began his career as a graphic designer for a magazine, then transitioned to work as a creative in an advertising agency. In his spare time, he continued to create art and design work in his unique style.
"Routine work is done according to the brief, while artwork is created from the heart. When engaged in artistic endeavors, we live with our own emotions. Learning, correcting, improving, or failing is entirely our own journey. However, routine work requires collaboration with others. Organizing thoughts is crucial, avoiding excessive emotions but not neglecting oneself. Often, the results of art-making are applied to routine work, and vice versa, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two."

Employing sharp lines and vibrant colors that contrast and stand out, Tikkywow reduces some details to offer a fresh and enjoyable perspective. He selects stories from his surroundings, including current trends, to convey through his artwork for everyone to appreciate. These elements are evident highlights in Tikkywow's work.

"In the beginning, my work was characterized by bold black-and-white lines, which I found appealing. However, after some time, it started to feel gloomy and dark, as if I were alone. Changing my perspective and embracing color transformed my work into something more tangible. Viewers find joy in it, and so do I."

One notable response came from Juxtapoz, a British arts and culture magazine, which was intrigued by Tikkywow's work and reached out to feature his art. This led to numerous collaborations with globally renowned brands such as Nike, Toyota, Intel, KFC, Food Panda, G-Shock, and more.

"It's as if we are small individuals in some corner of the world, but there are people who see the value in our work, driving us to further self-development. Art transcends any singular form; it can turn everyday things into works of art. The modern world offers paths for us to explore our identities and create new things previously unimagined."

POLARDON (Yuree)

POLARDON is derived from the combination of two words: Poseidon and Polar Bear, symbolizing the sea god and the iconic white bear of the polar region. Despite their greatness, they too face the impacts of global warming and human-induced environmental degradation. Regardless of their magnificence, they lose their power as humans assert dominance over everything—nature, animals, and even gods. The imagery of POLARDON on an ice block amidst a herd of beloved horses, surrounded by ocean litter, calls for a reevaluation of environmental issues in the real world.

POLARDON glass beads are designed in a cubic shape resembling ice cubes. The vibrant beads echo Yuree's cartoon characters, adorned with golden scales that complement the paintings. The interior of the beads mimics ripples and waves, representing the enduring beauty of the sea that should be preserved indefinitely.

Yuree Kensaku, a Thai-Japanese mixed heritage artist, finds joy in creating diverse forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, designs, graphic styles, animation, and street art, blending techniques and experimenting with materials without limits. This has led to a unique identity recognized and proven through numerous art exhibitions both domestically and internationally.

For Yuree, drawing is akin to taking notes—a record documented through images, conveying the surroundings and impactful life stories, transforming them into vibrant cartoons with clear lines while carrying underlying societal implications that prompt reflection.
"Intending to convey challenging and negative narratives through bright and charming cartoon characters, turning adversity into beauty. Yet, beneath the apparent beauty lies hidden thoughts yearning to reflect and raise awareness of the realities. Much like observing the world, it depends on the perspective one chooses. Ultimately, whether it's good or bad, one must come to terms with it. Therefore, as an artist, I aim to present without burden. I wish for those who view my work to find happiness. Thus, prioritizing concepts and style over realism."

Asked about feelings while collaborating with OHM: "Each type of art has its unique way of communicating with different groups. Having worked in various mediums, I've met many people and found joy in learning and embracing new experiences. This collaboration is no different. Usually, I work on large pieces, but working on glass beads with OHM requires meticulous attention to detail."

THE LEOPARD THAT SHINES LIKE A GEM (Hifly)

Previously collaborating with OHM on Exhibition 9, dedicated to the memory of His Majesty King Rama IX, Hifly showcased his talent for paper folding, including a rendition of Khun Thongdaeng, the royal pet dog. Continuing this partnership, Hifly brought forth another aspect of his creativity by introducing a glass bead design for the Thailand Artist Collection. This collaboration with OHM stems from their shared journey with the leopard, symbolizing a companionship grounded in mutual support and exploration.

Presenting his painting THE LEOPARD THAT SHINES LIKE A GEM to OHM, Hifly envisioned glass beads that captured the essence of the leopard, combining contrasting colors harmoniously and featuring the distinctive leopard pattern. Each glass bead, akin to a precious gem, embodies the splendor and magnificence of the leopard, reflecting its inherent value

At the age of 10, folding paper into the shape of a samurai helmet marked the beginning of, Putthipong Prathanawanit, Hifly's journey into the world of art. His fascination led him to explore and study paper folding techniques from artists worldwide, igniting excitement each time he witnessed ordinary paper come to life. Reflecting on the joy of those playful days, Hifly expressed how his journey has exceeded his initial expectations.

Recognizing their son's genuine passion, Hifly's family decided to support his artistic pursuits, sending him to pursue a bachelor's degree in computer animation in Florida, USA. He simultaneously began drawing and painting continuously, experimenting with various styles, and even ventured into selling his artwork when he found the marketplace. Through this process, he discovered his unique style, which revolves around the playful depiction of leopards,” a motif that has become his signature. These leopards, vibrant and full of color, embody both whimsy and the concealed elegance and power of a tiger.

"In the beginning, my determination to prove myself and explore my identity led me to a rigid framework that stifled my creativity. However, as I allowed myself to relax and create freely, I found a path that reflects my true self through the image of the leopard. It's not just an ordinary leopard; it's a leopard adorned with intricate details, shapes, colors, and patterns, reflecting my personality."

THE METAMORPHOSIS OF MELTING SNOWWOLF (May-T)

THE METAMORPHOSIS OF MELTING SNOWWOLF is a painting teeming with various elements and contexts, including the sun, pyramids, pizza, fans, camels, ice cream, and sphinx. At first glance, it's hard to fathom how they all coalesce into one image. Mowgli, embodied as a snow wolf, serves as the focal point of the composition, with May-T narrating a tale that transcends imagination.

"For me, Mowgli symbolizes a transformative force in my life. This painting captures Mowgli's essence just before his passing. I envisioned portraying Mowgli in a fantastical and surreal manner. Here, Mowgli appears as a melting ice creature , symbolizing humanity's defiance against nature. Taking a dog accustomed to the cold and snow and raising it in a tropical city akin to a desert, despite our efforts to adapt, the heat nearly melts us like ice cream. The melting also signifies the conclusion of Mowgli's life cycle. Though I wished to have Mowgli by my side for longer, as he aged and fell ill, and departed, we couldn't hold onto him. All we can do is immortalize Mowgli through art, allowing him to exist indefinitely in the world of creativity, akin to living beyond death in a pyramid guarded by a sphinx."

While the painting tells a multifaceted story, its translation into glass simplifies the narrative. Utilizing shades of blue, pink, and yellow—resembling Mowgli's fur—the designs each carry significance based on May-T’s emotional resonance. Blue represents the cold, symbolizing Mowgli's origins from icy lands. Pink embodies a surreal realm, Light from fantasy or imagination signifying the hope for Mowgli to endure. Yellow represents light, life, heat and reality; ultimately, Mowgli's life fades away like melting ice. However, yellow light also symbolizes warmth and remembrance. Despite physical separation, the beauty of friendship endures, lasting eternally.

Maythee Noijinda, the guitarist of the iconic 90s alternative rock band Modern Dog, is one well-known figure associated with OHM, having previously collaborated on designing the OHM X MayT bead collection. With nearly 30 years in the music industry, this man has traversed time with remarkable skill, as evidenced by their six albums that remain contemporary and timeless. He maintains a distinct identity of his own.

Apart from music, May-T also shows interest in other art forms. When he commits to something, he dedicates himself wholeheartedly. He began by studying and practicing, leading to an increase in his artistic output, culminating in solo and group exhibitions.

"Drawing is like a retreat when I'm exhausted from music. During the quiet moments of sketching and painting, I find solace. It's refreshing to give my auditory senses a break and engage other senses instead. This led me to enroll in a serious drawing course. I started by imitating the works of famous artists, much like when we learn to play music by covering other artists' songs. Eventually, I aimed to develop my own style and techniques, choosing to depict subjects close to my heart. It's about familiarity."

"Mowgli," the beloved Siberian Husky, became a significant source of inspiration and a muse for May-T.

"Mowgli is more than just a pet; he's a companion who taught me to appreciate life's intricacies. We spent over 11 years together. Through art, I documented Mowgli's story and growth. Even though Mowgli is no longer with us today, every detail remains etched in my memory, as if he's still by my side.”

WORLD BOY (Tri Puck)

A new creative venture presented itself when Puck collaborated with OHM to design glass beads, selecting the image of World Boy—a character with a globe for a head. This character, a park inspector lost in thought surrounded by various animals, serves as a metaphor for self-reflection. The blue and green glass beads represent the Earth's crust, conveying the message that despite differences, the world's inhabitants can coexist and thrive by caring for one another. In Puck's narrative, the interconnectedness of all things is emphasized, reinforcing the idea that we are the world, and unity is essential for survival.

Tripuck Supawattana, like many others, grew up immersed in Japanese cartoons. His fascination with reading, watching, drawing, and writing fueled a childhood dream of becoming a cartoonist. Tripuck relentlessly pursued avenues that aligned with his passion, practicing diligently and submitting his work to contests. His dedication led him to enroll in the Faculty of Decorative Arts at Silpakorn University, providing a deeper understanding of art theory and clarifying his artistic preferences.

In his pursuit, Tripuck developed a distinctive style featuring strange and surreal characters, vibrant colors, and a pop culture influence. Operating under the pseudonym "Puck," his work served as a powerful tool to question and critique society, reflecting on prevalent issues and seeking answers.

Describing his work as a blend of sweet exterior and bitter medicine, Puck uses cartoons as a form of personal expression, akin to writing a diary. Through his art, he explores inner feelings and encounters, emphasizing the essence of his cartoons as a portrayal of the value of life. The characters, though eccentric and imperfect, symbolize individuals striving to overcome challenges and progress.

BAR BY BAR

Captured within glass, an orange ocean stretches, refracting light from the heat of the sun. Ivory gray sandbars weave bar by bar through the waves, shimmering in playful hues. From above, let us marvel at the mosaic of millions of tiny dots, each representing a person at play, each a story unfolding. As our perspective shifts, the glass comes alive, casting dancing prisms of thought. Within the radiant heat, a sense of separation and connection mingles, as if suspended in a moment outside of time. The sandbars, kissed by the ebb and flow, hold footprints that fracture and rejoin with the shifting light, a testament to the interconnectedness of existence. In this tapestry of refracted tales, we, the observer ponder the intricacies of their own narrative, mesmerized by the enchantment of story told.

BREATH BY BREATH

In an all-orange expanse, bright and unyielding, a series of big bubbles undulate along the periphery. Breath by breath, OHM, invites you to find solace amidst the ebb and flow of life's currents. Each bubble, a sacred breath, holds the power to anchor you to your center. Amidst soaring highs of revelry and excess, or the depths of anxiety and isolation, the breath remains a constant, guiding you back to stillness. In this modern and striking composition, as you immerse yourself in its calming presence, let the rhythm of your breath intertwine with the vibrant waves of orange, soothing your spirit, and restoring harmony within.

BUMP BY BUMP

Amidst an orange landscape, a single ivory hiccup disrupts the flow. Bump by bump, obstacles emerge, commanding attention. Yet, through focused determination, we navigate the path ahead. With each encounter, we discover our power to overcome, to face challenges head-on. In this vibrant interplay, the message resounds: tackle what lies before you. Be fuled by resilience and conviction. Empowered and motivated, embrace the path, knowing that one obstacle at a time, we can accomplish anything we set our mind to.

DIVE BY DIVE

A dot submerged beneath an orange-hued sea, leaving the world above behind, diving into the depths. As the depths embrace you, a transformation unfolds. Pride gives way to humility, power surrenders to vulnerability, and independence finds solace in interconnectedness. In this metaphorical descent, you journey within, exploring the depths of your own story. Bubbles escape, rising like fragments of breath, symbolizing the release of thoughts and emotions. Cut off from external distractions, immerse into the richness of introspection. And when resurfacing, stories may spill forth, woven with newfound understanding. The cycle repeats, dive by dive, a choice to delve deeper, to connect, and to resurface, carrying tales of transformation.

DRIP BY DRIP

Across a sacral canvas, ivory drips spiral gracefully, a slow dance of giving and receiving. Life's energy ebbs and flows, drip by drip, as we find equilibrium in the delicate balance. Around and around we cycle, a mesmerizing rhythm of existence. In the quiet surrender to this cosmic rhythm, a sense of calm washes over us, instilling hope and intention. Motivated by the gradual transformation, we embrace each drip as a step forward, ever mindful of the purpose it serves. Through this artistry of patience, we are reminded that progress is made one drip at a time.

SIDE BY SIDE

Ivory, orange, and blue converge, a trio of choices, a tapestry of connections. Intertwined and ever-changing. In this harmonious union, loyalty and connection flourish. The vibrant hues invite us to seize the day, to bask in the glorious possibilities that lie ahead. It's a day of infinite potential, where we become an active participant, fueled by the intertwined energies of loyalty and connection. Inspired by the vivid palette, embrace the joy of the present moment and embark on a journey where anything is possible, side by side.

STROKE BY STROKE

A blue and ivory realm unfolds, strokes of determination cutting through the glass. Each stroke represents a choice, a deliberate act of progress along life's winding path. Dive into the cerulean depths, stroke by stroke, and discover the joy of movement. Brightness illuminates the way, casting a hopeful glow upon the journey. In this dance of deliberate actions, hope springs eternal, pushing us forward. Embrace the call to make a choice, to take action, and find solace in the promise that each stroke holds a possibility, leading to a brighter tomorrow.

Wow, there they all are! A collection worth celebrating! Happy anniversary OHM and to all who attend the party in Thailand, have a wonderful time!