Elephant in the Spotlight: Monique

Alin is a Chiang Mai based artist and the founder of Things N Thangs. Where Alin showcases her paintings and print pieces. Her art style is abstract and colourful. Just like her personality.

What was your inspiration of Monique?

When I think of an elephant, I think of a beautiful creature with a lively personality. Elephants are considered symbols of good fortune that bring many positive characteristics, so I wanted to design something fun and colourful. I use bright colours to portray happiness and many different playful shapes to represent a strong, positive and forward-looking into the bright future of endangered Elephants.

How did you start out as an artist?

It wasn't that long ago, that I was in an office, wondering if sitting under fluorescent lighting staring at a screen was my lot in life. Deep down I knew it wasn't. I knew there was something else out there for me, but I didn't know what it was. It was only when I picked up a paintbrush, that I felt a spark!

 

Tell us about your aesthetic.

I started taking inspiration from landscapes and local environment and transform them into surface pattern design with an abstract, contemporary feel and a strong focus on the use of colour combinations as well as keeping contrasts and balance.

What makes you passionate about the work that you do?

Probably the fact that it brings me closer to the best version of myself. I have found that doing art as my 'truest self' not only brings me joy but to those who enjoy my paintings. I almost want to say I like making art that’s contagious with happiness which is probably going to sound really corny but there, I said it anyway.