| Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... |
Two BISP Art teachers, Charlotte McGuigan and Benjawan Niamyai (Pandy), have joined more than 30 artists in ณ กาลจุลจอม, an exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).
The exhibition opened on 28 October at the Khunying Kanjana Na Ranong Art Gallery, Phuket Rajabhat University, bringing together established artists from Phuket and Bangkok alongside members of the local creative community.
King Chulalongkorn, who reigned from 1868 to 1910, is remembered for his role in modernising Thailand, including reforms to education, public services and administration, as well as the gradual abolition of slavery.
For Charlotte and Pandy, the exhibition offered an opportunity to explore this history through their own artistic perspectives.
Two Artists, Two Perspectives
Charlotte’s acrylic painting, The Discerning Crown: A Portrait of King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, explores the balance between the King’s royal authority and his humanity.
Drawing on her British heritage, Charlotte incorporated patterns inspired by William Morris alongside Thai influences, reflecting the cultural connections between Britain and Siam during the King’s reign.
“I began by researching images of King Chulalongkorn throughout his life, aiming to portray him as thoughtful and knowledgeable,” Charlotte explained.
Her background in graphic design influenced the painting’s sharp lines, bold colours and layered acrylic technique. She began with the King’s face, using a grid to establish the composition before developing the surrounding details.
Pandy approached her portrait using charcoal and pencil, choosing to depict King Chulalongkorn later in life.
For her, the artwork was a personal expression of respect and admiration for a historical figure whose reforms continue to hold significance for Thai people.
“I am very proud of this King and to tell others of his story and how he helped Thai people,” she shared.
Both artists completed their pieces in approximately one week, working in different media but drawing inspiration from the same historical subject.
Connecting with Phuket’s Creative Community
Charlotte and Pandy became involved after discovering an open call for artists and contacting exhibition organiser Kanchana Sutthikanchanakul.
For Pandy, participating in the exhibition is particularly meaningful as an opportunity to express the respect and affection many Thai people continue to hold for King Chulalongkorn.
Charlotte, who has lived in Thailand for more than ten years, values the opportunity to contribute to the local arts community.
“I am honoured to be involved with our community and to take part in this special exhibition,” she said.
Beyond this event, both artists hope to see more opportunities for exhibitions and greater recognition of Thai art in Phuket.
Their participation also reflects the creative practice our Art teachers pursue beyond the classroom, bringing their own experiences as working artists into the BISP community.
Visit the Exhibition
ณ กาลจุลจอม is open to the public until 7 November 2026, with free admission.
Venue: Khunying Kanjana Na Ranong Art Gallery, Phuket Rajabhat University
Dates: 28 October – 7 November 2026
Opening hours: Official government working days and hours
Admission: Free
Visitors can discover the work of participating artists and explore different interpretations of King Chulalongkorn’s life and legacy.
Congratulations to Charlotte and Pandy on being part of this exhibition, and thank you to the organisers for bringing together artists from across the community.