A new chapter in life and art
Relocating from bustling Bangkok to the tranquil Satun region, nestled near Malaysia’s border, was a turning point for Thai designer and illustrator Sornsil Apichirapokey, known creatively as Livelyhood. This move wasn’t just geographical; it marked a shift in his artistic journey from graphic design to illustration. In this calming setting, Win, as he is also known, unearthed a style that is both soothing and meditative, reflecting the Buddhist philosophies he holds dear.
“This change made me realize how lucky I am to be here,” Win reflects. “When life is calm and not so rushed, I have more time to talk to myself and understand who I really am. In the end, what everyone is truly looking for is inner peace.”
Connecting creativity with nature
Precision in his work lies in its connection to nature and sustainability. A standout project, the card game Mission Zero, encapsulates these themes. Developed for P24, a Thai initiative encouraging a net-zero transition, the game engages players to become environmentally conscious as they vie to reduce emissions. “It visualizes how our daily activities affect the planet and reminds us that we can actually stop it,” explains Win. The design challenge was to harmonize monochrome and colorful elements within a cohesive aesthetic.
Exploring life’s poignant themes
Win’s personal series, A Common Ending for Everything, delves into the cycle of change, death, and renewal through understated elegance. Gradient bars in his compositions signify the transience of life, echoing the fleeting nature of captured moments. “Even the most beautiful moments will eventually pass and fade away,” he muses, suggesting that acknowledging this truth often can prepare our hearts for final goodbyes.
Resonating beyond borders
Win’s work is reaching new audiences, highlighted by his collaboration with CIMB Bank, whose posters featured prominently within Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain network and animated jumbotrons. Despite the encroaching fame, he’s staying grounded, appreciating the growing recognition of illustration in Thailand. “Over the past five years, the illustration scene in Thailand has become so much more vibrant,” he notes, celebrating the increasing use of illustrations by brands and the rise of dedicated events and galleries.
Maintaining a serene approach to his future, Win dreams of creating a picture book centered on mindfulness. “I believe that when we are mindful, wisdom follows, and problems can be solved,” he shares. By embracing mindfulness, Win finds the essence of a life well-navigated, a philosophy he hopes to impart through his art.
Source: creativeboom.com