Surin Yingyong's watercolours of the scenic Doi (mountain) Sutep in Chiang Mai were made as if he were confiding with the mountain itself. He sits in the same position at the back of the art faculty building which gives him the full view of the mountain including the Wat (Buddhist temple) Doi Sutep. Every time he wants to have a break or during his spare time at the school he will be drawing at this spot. Each watercolor is reflective of the process of investigating his thoughts and his feelings at that moment in time.

I have been thinking over and over about why these works have so much impact on me. Things that are evident in these works as well as the process in executing them reflect some similarities. One is the freedom of direct internal expression without any limitations or restrictions from rules and standard values, especially the formal educational ones. These are also works that were created without any expectations of external benefits such as being sold or even being exhibited. Secondly, the process of creation originates directly from love and happiness while executing the works. The creation of the work is not about the developing process of technique, content or style. If it happens, at least it was not intended to be but more the consequence of making the work. Finally, these works were developed with high value in terms of spirit and soul therefore, it is difficult to dismiss them or understand them or judge their value based upon aesthetic knowledge and theory.

I begin to gain more confidence in the understanding of my definition of art and its related issues. Learning from the "medium rare creation" process of art making confirmed my belief that art is merely the process of understanding nature. The heart of creation is the freedom of expression without any restrictions from outside influences. Finally, the true value of art is that it makes us gain more understanding about and appreciation of nature, the balance between the physical and spiritual elements, oneself and society or human beings and nature.

Finally, I hope that this exhibition increases our awareness of the "pure" value that we all had when we were young. As seen in the works of the "medium rare creation" by these particular art students, my belief is confirmed. Pure value is still in existence in all of us even when we reach adulthood. It might be that it has just been forgotten or ignored because of the wrong social values that place more importance on material success than on the spiritual one.

Text by Kamin Lertchaiprasert
Translated by Klaomard Yipintsoi and Naomi Urabe