At the gallery of Chiang Rai Buddhist University, a space dedicated to showcasing creative works by art students, we met Jay Thanakorn Saelee, a second-year undergraduate student in Buddhist Art. Jay has loved art since childhood and is one of the recipients of educations fund from World Vision Foundation of Thailand under the Child Sponsorship Programme and Bachelor’s Degree Programme.
From a Child Who Loved Drawing to a Future Artist
Jay grew up in a family with limited financial resources, but always found joy in drawing. He was supported by World Vision Foundation of Thailand from Grade 4 through the Child Sponsorship Programme, which provided educational assistance, health promotion, a safe and suitable environment, and opportunities to develop life skills. These opportunities became the foundation for his education over the years.
After completing secondary school, Jay enrolled in a two-year short art course at Mae Fah Luang University, but faced the decision of whether to pursue a bachelor’s degree due to the high costs involved.
Eventually, he received a life-changing opportunity—an education fund from the Bachelor’s Degree Programme.
“When I found out I had received the education fund, I was overjoyed. Without it, I would not have been able to continue my studies,” Jay recalled.
Studying Art to Grow and Pay It Forward
Jay’s future goal is not only to become a professional artist but also to teach and share knowledge with younger generations, using art as a tool to help society—something he has already done.
During a major flood in Chiang Rai, Jay auctioned about ten of his artworks on his personal Facebook page, raising over 10,000 baht to help those affected.
“I have experienced hardship myself, so I know what it feels like. If my art can help someone, I am happy to do it.”
Behind the Diverse Artworks
At the gallery, we viewed several of Jay’s pieces, both academic and personal creations, including:
. Landscape works using charcoal techniques
. Monochrome pieces created with a single colour to convey depth
. ‘Connecting Colour’ works featuring vibrant palettes
. Line drawings in black and white pencil
. Traditional Thai gilded black lacquer work (Lai Rot Nam)
The most challenging piece, Jay said, was the gilded black lacquer work (Lai Rot Nam) because the original design was an ancient motif with faded details, requiring careful observation and meticulous restoration.
Although each piece uses different techniques, Jay says he loves them all as if they were his “own children.”
An Education Fund That Changed a Life and Passes Hope to the Next Generation
Jay openly admits that without this education fund, he would not be standing here today creating art, nor would these works currently on display exist.
“If I had not received the education fund, I would have gone back home. This collection would not exist.”
Finally, Jay expressed his gratitude to all supporters through this interview:
“Your support is never in vain. We are students who truly strive to learn and have clear goals in life. If one day I succeed, I want to stand where you are now and help support the next generation, just as you have helped me today.”
