Author: Seb Toussaint

Tuk Ta chose the word “มิตรภาพ”, pronounced “Mitraphāph” and meaning “Friendship”.

Tuk Ta was born here in Phra Chen 72 years ago. Not only does she know everyone in the slum but she is friends with everyone.

Phra Chen is tight community and after painting here for a few weeks I’m feeling like everyone has adopted me. I’ve been painting absolutely every day here in temperatures that make sweat roll into my eyes, but it’s such a pleasure to work for extremely kind and generous people like Tuk Ta. She’s been continuously bringing me food a drink and even gave me more unusual gifts like a large packet of tissue paper and a carrier bag!

May chose the word “Myself” in Thai. Painted in Phra Chen, Bangkok.

May chose the word “Myself” in Thai.

She told me that sometimes in life you have to be able to rely on yourself, and it is something she tries to pass on to her son.

Som Chay chose the word « หัวโขน », pronounced « Hua-Kown » and meaning « mask ».

Som Chay chose the word « หัวโขน » , pronounced « Hua-Korn » and meaning « mask ».

Som Chay and his wife create traditional Thai masks and have a real passion for it. They showed me their inspiring work before I started painting!

On this mural I tried to play with the Thai script a little more than in the previous murals. I’ve been looking at signs, packaging and Thai newspapers to see how it’s possible to play with the letters while still making them legible.

Bunmi chose the word « Khwām s̄uk̄h » meaning « Happiness » in Thai.
As a Buddhist, she believes that the greatest source of happiness is cherishing others.

Bunmi chose the word « Khwām s̄uk̄h » meaning « Happiness » in Thai.

As a Buddhist, she believes that the greatest source of happiness is cherishing others.

This is the first time in 11 years that I’m doing « Share The Word Project » in a buddhist community!

Ooi chose the word « Hua-Jai » meaning « heart » in Thai. Painted in Phra Chen, Bangkok.

Ooi, the community leader chose the word « Hua-Jai » meaning « heart » in Thai.

During the 2 days I spent painting the wall, I understood what a good heart she has. At 64 years old, she takes time to fetch left-over food from restaurants and hotels, brings it back on a scooter and gives it to those of her community who need it the most.

Tak chose the word « Phra Chen », the name of her neighbourhood. Painted in Bangkok, Thailand.