Doing it their way
A Canadian photographer and light painter showcases his creations
CANADIAN PHOTOGRAPHER Patrick Rochon, who is better known as Patrick the Light Painter, won plenty of applause from Thais for his recent light painting show, the first ever in Thailand, which was held at Ztudio Live Hall, RCA as part of the “Find Your Own Way” activity organised by local whisky brand Blend 285.
Rochon, who has won numerous awards for his works of art, oscillated two LED sticks in the air in much way as a conventional artist puts paint strokes on the canvas to the beats of music by a DJ.
“I am from Montreal and I’m an artist. When I was young, my curiosity led me to discover light painting. Painting has led me to other discoveries along the way and has become my passion,” Rochon told XP after the event.
“I saw a picture with light shining through and I wondered what was going on inside. I was taking a photo of something, so I tried it again in the dark, and there was light. It was amazing how that light was created – it was magical, like from another world. I spent four years studying that picture and after that I became a light painter. I belong to a community of fellow artists. We are not competitors, but supporters of each other. It’s a different discipline from light photography, as I have to think about how light travels and work with my instincts. I break free from the rules and create my own art,” Rochon explains.
“I’m always trying to find what I want. I listen to my heart – no one knows me as well as I do. I follow what my heart wants. If you love what you do, that passion will take you on the right path and you will find your own way.”
Many Thais have already found their own way in the arts, among them Gene Kasidit who released his electro-style album “Affairs” on Smallroom, 59 On Air’s producer Supakan “Jay” Plodpai, Manassalil “Mind” Manoonporn, the creative director of Plant House, Elle Men fashion editor Napat Sutithon, model Nathalie Ducheine, and bartender Pattawee “Dodoh” Pheungpay from “Thailand’s Got Talent”.
“Trial and error is always good and I know it has given me more power,” said Gene. “Previously, I hesitated to dress in glam but then I lost patience with my awkwardness and went my own way. Now, I’m happy to be myself.”
Supakan agreed. “Discovering the essence of who we are and what we want to be relies on experience. When we feel comfortable, we have found our way.”
“My first obstacle was not knowing what I really wanted to do and not being daring enough to find out. When I did, I was so much happier. I urge everyone to follow their instincts,” Manassalil added.
“My challenge was always feeling disheartened. When I overcame that, I found I could achieve everything,” Pattawee said.
Follow the movement of the next “Find Your Own Way” event at Facebook/Blend 285
