Inspiration of Chiang Mai

Award-winning Australian textile designer and fine artist Chris Chun has lived in Chiang Mai for two years, and finds great inspiration in the northern Thai city. Here he talks about how living in Thailand has impacted on his art.

The multi-talented Chris Chun

- When did you move to Chiang Mai, and why did you decide to move there?

My husband Matthew and I moved to Chiang Mai back in December 2010 and it was our third visit here. We wanted a lifestyle change/ mini sabbatical from Australia and Matthew (an environmental lawyer) wanted to take some time off from the bar to write a book and experience living overseas for the first time. I think we were only supposed to be here for a year!

- How has living in Chiang Mai affected your work?

I am definitely a lot more relaxed and chilled out living here. It is definitely a slower, more relaxed pace of life, probably a bit too much for me! For example, I am still waiting to hear back on a quote from the printers to get some things made and this was over three weeks ago.

I am very inspired by the whole city - nature, colour, textiles and culture here. There is a rich arts and crafts movement in Chiang Mai and there are lots of artisans here doing their own thing which is very inspiring to be part of. I am learning how to make ceramics as well as getting back into printmaking, specifically etchings and silkscreen. I am also doing lots more creative things (like making videos) and not thinking about just making stuff for money.

Cherry Blosson Love @Chris Chun

- What inspires you? Anything specifically Thai?

The flower markets here are incredible. As I paint a lot of flowers, I’ve been walking around to Kamtiang Flower Markets which is just behind my studio to take photos and paint the orchids there. I also think the textiles available here are beautiful.

Details of orchids @Chris Chun

- Is there a vibrant art scene in Chiang Mai?

I don’t know if I would call it vibrant but there is a cool, little art scene here. The Meeting Room Art Gallery is well worth a visit and there are lots of independent ones that no one has ever heard about which are good. The Thais don’t seem to be that pro-active in their marketing and promotion. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be many opportunities for artists to make a living apart from selling their works at the markets but I am trying to help in any way I can.

For more information about Chris, visit his website www.chrischun.com

Tea Garden @Chris Chun