SUPAWAN TAYARACHAKUL’S INTEREST IN DRAWING AND ENVIRONMENT MOTIVATES HERSELF, MIMININI, TO BE THE ILLUSTRATOR WHO DISPLAYS THE ISSUES OF NATURE THROUGH THE WATERCOLOR LINE DRAWING STYLE WITH SOME CRAFTS

TEXT & IMAGE COURYTESY OF MIMININI

(For Thai, press here)

WHO

Supawan Tayarachakul. My nickname is Mimi, and my pen name is miminini.

WHAT

I am an artist/illustrator currently interested in nature and the environment, using art as a communication tool.

WHEN

I’ve been drawing since I was a child, probably starting in kindergarten, following my sister’s example. My interest in environmental issues began during an internship where I learned and practiced making ceramics in Yaowarat, and it continued through my studies in architecture and my internship in Chiang Mai.

WHERE

I am currently living in Bangkok.

WHY

Because I love drawing and want to pursue a career I enjoy. I see drawing as a form of communication, so I want to illustrate the issues I care about (I’m not good at writing or speaking, but I can draw).

How would you describe your work?

If I had to define it, I’d say it’s a detailed, whimsical watercolor line drawing style. However, I’m currently experimenting with new styles, incorporating crafts like embroidery and collage.

What is your inspiration and guiding principle for each creation?

Nature is my inspiration. Being in a pristine natural environment feels revitalizing, and I often encounter amazing stories of plants and insects that I love. Another source of inspiration is reading my favorite storybooks.

What project are you most proud of?

The first illustrated storybook I created, titled ‘Kids Have Dreams.’ I’ve long dreamed of making a picture book where readers can find characters, similar to a childhood book I had with intricate illustrations where I searched for a yellow duck. This book tells stories of children dreaming of a better city, with two characters to find within the illustrations. I was thrilled to get the chance to illustrate it.

Which stage of the design process do you like the most?

The research phase. I see illustrations as a form of communication, and I love gathering information, especially on topics like environmental issues. If I can do fieldwork, it’s even more exciting. For one project, I spent a month in Chiang Dao studying life in a rose field, which I enjoyed immensely.

If you could invite a ‘creative’ to coffee, who would you invite and why?

My mom. Coffee time feels like a break for me, and I’d like to talk more with her, as we don’t get to chat much during my working hours.

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