Celebrated Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat has officially returned his national artist title to the Ministry of Culture, stating he wishes to live the remainder of his life as an ordinary citizen.
The 70-year-old made the announcement on Monday through a post on the Facebook page “Following the Life of Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat.”
He revealed that a formal letter had been sent to the ministry on May 3, expressing his decision to step down from the honorary position, as he no longer produces artwork.
Chalermchai, who gained national artist status in the field of visual arts in 2011, explained that it had been his long-held intention to give up all accolades by the age of 70. He added that he would not accept any future titles or official roles.
“When you write anything about me, no need to mention that I’m a national artist,” he said.
“Just refer me as Mr Chalermchai or ajarn Chalermchai. That’s enough,” he stated in the post. “I bad-mouth, and I don’t want the office giving me status to be damaged by that,” he added.
Prior to this, he had already resigned from various positions granted to him by other institutions.
Chalermchai had earlier announced in 2022 that he was stepping away from the art world to spend his later years travelling by motorcycle with friends throughout Thailand and abroad.
Best known for creating Wat Rong Khun, the famed White Temple in Chiang Rai, Chalermchai has long been regarded as one of Thailand’s most influential contemporary artists. He turned 70 on February 15 this year.
