FEATURE: This is Ohm – His Incredible Art Transforms Workplaces Across Asia

If you’ve admired the full-wall murals in some of the most prestigious corporate offices and public spaces in Singapore, Bangkok or Hong Kong, chances are you’ve seen the work of Thai mural artist Uroodong “Ohm” Chongthanatrakol.

Ohm’s journey from a young art enthusiast in Bangkok to a renowned mural artist based in Singapore is a testament to his passion, perseverance, and creativity. His vibrant, thought-provoking murals bring life, culture, and inspiration to corporate environments, transforming workplaces across Asia.

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

As a child in Thailand, Ohm spent countless hours drawing and painting, honing his skills and developing a keen eye for detail. Encouraged by his parents, he pursued his passion by attending King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang in Bangkok, where he studied interior architecture. This formal education provided him with a broad understanding of artistic techniques and principles, which he would later apply to his mural work.

The Move to Singapore

After graduating, Ohm worked as a designer at the Bangkok-based interior design firm P49 Deesign for five years. Seeking broader horizons and new opportunities, he moved to Singapore.

“As an interior designer, I could learn more about the international industry and construction standards in Singapore,” he shares. “I also wanted to improve my English because it was tough for me to practice it in a Thai environment.”

Over the next eight years, Ohm worked at major interior and architectural firms. During this time, he continued to sketch, using his drawings to communicate his ideas and bridge the language gap as his English improved.

Discovering a Passion for Murals

The transition from canvas to walls was a natural progression for Ohm. He found that murals allowed him to engage with a wider audience and make a more significant impact on the spaces they occupied. His first mural project in Singapore was a commission where he transformed a plain wall into a vibrant, eye-catching masterpiece. The success of this project led to more commissions, and Ohm quickly became known for his ability to turn ordinary walls into works of art.

Ohm’s murals are characterized by their intricate details. He draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including nature, and everyday life. His unique style combines traditional Thai motifs with contemporary design elements, creating a fusion that is both familiar and innovative.

Transforming Workplaces Across Asia

One of the most remarkable aspects of Ohm’s career is his ability to transform workplaces through his art. In a region where corporate environments can often be perceived as dull and monotonous, Ohm’s murals bring a breath of fresh air. His art not only beautifies these spaces but also fosters a sense of creativity and inspiration among employees.

Founding ‘Just Sketch’

In 2015, Ohm decided to take a leap of faith and pursue his passion for art full-time by founding his own company, Just Sketch, with his wife and business partner, Paranee “Tai” Sanguanpong. It was a bold move, considering he had been told that nobody would buy his artwork, and that he would “eat grass and drink rainwater” for his decision to leave the corporate world.

However, Ohm’s persistence paid off. Just Sketch quickly gained traction, with the company now selling merchandise of his artworks and conducting sketching workshops. They have also cultivated a robust network of artist collaborators, allowing them to take on large-scale projects in some of the most prominent spaces in Singapore.

“My clients want to communicate their branding and stories to visitors and audiences. The artworks usually talk about their business, presence, and history. We believe people remember pictures better than words,” he says. Ohm’s design training, network, and fresh outsider’s perspective have enabled him to tailor visual solutions to his clients’ visions effectively.

The Artistic Process

Creating a mural is a complex and labor-intensive process that requires careful planning and execution. Ohm’s artistic process begins with a thorough understanding of the space and the client’s vision. He spends time researching the company, its values, and the intended message of the mural.

Once he has a clear concept in mind, Ohm creates detailed sketches and digital mock-ups to present to the client. This collaborative approach ensures that the final design aligns with the client’s expectations and the overall aesthetic of the space.

With the design approved, Ohm begins the actual painting process. Depending on the size and complexity of the mural, this can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. He uses a variety of techniques and materials, often combining traditional painting methods with modern digital tools to achieve the desired effect.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like any artist, Ohm faces his share of challenges. Working on large-scale murals often involves logistical hurdles, such as obtaining permits, dealing with weather conditions, and managing a team of assistants. Additionally, creating art in public or semi-public spaces can attract both positive and negative attention, requiring Ohm to navigate differing opinions and tastes.

Despite these challenges, Ohm’s dedication to his craft has earned him widespread acclaim. His ability to transform mundane spaces into vibrant works of art has not only garnered him numerous commissions but also a loyal following of admirers. Ohm’s success is a testament to his talent, hard work, and the universal appeal of his art.

The Broader Impact of Ohm’s Work

Ohm’s murals do more than beautify spaces; they also have a broader social and cultural impact. By incorporating elements of Thai culture into his work, he promotes a greater appreciation for his heritage. His art serves as a bridge between traditional and contemporary, local and global, fostering cross-cultural understanding and dialogue.

Ohm’s work also contributes to the growing recognition of street art and murals as legitimate forms of artistic expression. In many parts of Asia, street art is still viewed with skepticism and can even be associated with vandalism. Ohm’s success helps to challenge these perceptions, demonstrating that murals can be both aesthetically pleasing and culturally significant.

Evolving with Singapore

Ohm’s perception of Singapore has evolved significantly over his 17 years in the country. Initially, he viewed it as a modern city with few cultural roots. However, he now appreciates its rich cultural diversity and harmonious blending of different cultures. “It is so beautiful to see the harmony,” he says.

He also draws inspiration from Singapore’s built environment, particularly the mix of old and new architecture. “I found the mix of old and new intriguing. I rarely see such amalgamation of architectural epochs in Thailand, where they usually tear down old buildings or renovate them into an entirely new space,” he observes.

When the hustle and bustle of urban life becomes overwhelming, Ohm retreats to Singapore’s greener spots like The Botanic Gardens, Bishan Park, and Southern Ridges to unwind.

Future Projects and Aspirations

Looking ahead, Ohm has ambitious plans for his career. He hopes to continue expanding his reach, bringing his art to new cities and countries.

In addition to commercial projects, Ohm is also passionate about community-based initiatives.

He believes that art has the power to bring people together and create positive social change. To this end, he is also keen to collaborate with local organizations and schools to create murals that reflect and celebrate the unique cultural identities of different communities.

Ohm’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and the transformative power of art. From his humble beginnings in Bangkok to his current status as a celebrated mural artist not just in Singapore but across Asia, he has proven that with passion and dedication, it is possible to turn dreams into reality. As Ohm continues to push the boundaries of his craft, there is no doubt that his murals will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.

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If you are inspired by Ohm’s story and want to learn more about his work, you can find him at the following:

Website: just-sketch.com

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/uroodong-ohm-chongthanatrakol-b4a261ab

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ohmjustsketch