The Royal Household Bureau Honours Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana with the Title of National Artist for her Exceptional Contributions to Visual Arts
Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana has been conferred the honorary title of "Sirisinlapin National Artist" by the Culture Ministry in recognition of her outstanding contributions to visual arts, particularly in painting. This prestigious honour is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant artistic contributions that enrich Thai society and national identity.
The announcement was made by Ms Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the suspended Prime Minister and Culture Minister, who revealed the results of the National Culture Committee’s annual selection of outstanding figures in three categories: visual arts, literary arts, and performing arts. The committee acknowledges individuals who have excelled in these fields and have made significant impacts on Thai culture.
For 2024, a total of 574 nominees were considered, including one royal figure. Ultimately, 11 individuals, along with Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana, were honoured as National Artists. The selection process is rigorous and based on the artistic achievements and contributions of each nominee.
The Princess was awarded the honorary title "Sirisinlapin National Artist" for her exceptional contributions to visual arts, particularly in painting. Her artwork has been widely recognized and appreciated by art enthusiasts and critics alike. In addition to the Princess, other awardees in the visual arts category include Assoc Prof Wiwat Temiyapan (vernacular architecture) and Somlak Pantiboon (ceramics).
The literary arts category saw Rewat Phunpipat and Wanna Sawatsri receive awards for their outstanding contributions to literature. Meanwhile, in the performing arts category, Naruephon Duriya-phan was awarded for Thai music: vocal, Pakorn Pornpisut for khon and drama, Wirot Yusawasdi for Thai dance : monkey role in khon, Danu Huntrakoon for contemporary Thai music, Maj Praphatsak Chanpleng for Luk thung singer, and Nantawan Mekyai Suwanpiyasiri for film and television.
The Honoured National Artists to Receive Monthly Stipends and Benefits
As part of the honour, all national artists will receive monthly stipends of 25,000 baht, medical benefits up to 100,000 baht per fiscal year, disaster relief up to 50,000 baht per incident, and visitation allowances up to 3,000 baht. In the event of death, funeral support of 20,000 baht will be provided, along with publication assistance up to 150,000 baht.
Ms Paetongtarn expressed her gratitude and respect for Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana’s exceptional artistic brilliance and dedication to preserving Thai identity through visual arts. She highlighted the significance of the Princess’s contributions to the nation and the impact they have had on art enthusiasts.
Seeking Royal Permission for Commemorative Plaques
The Culture Ministry will formally seek royal permission to present the recipients to His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen to receive commemorative plaques and pins at a time of royal convenience. This ceremony is a testament to the enduring legacy of these exceptional individuals and their contributions to Thai culture.
Conclusion
Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana’s honorary title as "Sirisinlapin National Artist" serves as a recognition of her unwavering dedication to visual arts and her profound impact on preserving Thai identity. The Culture Ministry’s decision to confer this title upon the Princess is a testament to her exceptional artistic brilliance and dedication.
In conclusion, this prestigious honour underscores the significance of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Krom Phra Srisavangavadhana’s contributions to visual arts, serving as an inspiration to art enthusiasts and a reminder of the enduring legacy she has left on Thai culture.