Phuket: Ajarn Chalermchai Khositphiphat has announced his resignation from the National Artist position, expressing his desire to step down from all responsibilities upon reaching 70 years of age. His goal is to enjoy traveling, although he remains committed to supporting the art industry and the Ministry of Culture.
According to Thai News Agency, Ajarn Chalermchai, recognized as a National Artist in Visual Arts, Painting, declared his intention to resign during a lecture at the Thailand Biennale, Chiang Rai 2023. He submitted a formal resignation letter on May 30, aiming to pursue an independent lifestyle. In the letter addressed to the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ajarn Chalermchai stated his intention to cease creating art to relax and find happiness. He emphasized that a National Artist should relinquish the title if they are no longer actively creating art, urging the department to remove his name from the list.
Ajarn Chalermchai explained in an interview that his decision was driven by his age and a long-standing plan to resign from all positions at 70. He aspires to travel by motorcycle, though he remains open to assisting the Ministry and the art community. Despite attempts by the Ministry and its Minister to dissuade him from resigning, Ajarn Chalermchai reiterated that his decision was personal and not influenced by external factors. He was recognized as a National Artist in Visual Arts (Painting) in 2011 and has made significant contributions to Thai art, including works at Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai.
The Ministry of Culture has acknowledged Ajarn Chalermchai’s resignation. Mr. Prasop Riengngen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, confirmed that the ministry had been in communication with Ajarn Chalermchai regarding his resignation. Both the Minister of Culture and Mr. Prasop expressed their desire for Ajarn Chalermchai to reconsider, emphasizing that continuous creation is not a requirement for maintaining the National Artist title.
Mr. Prasop noted that Ajarn Chalermchai’s resignation will be addressed at the National Culture Commission meeting, with a focus on the impact on his welfare and benefits. National Artists receive a lifetime salary and various forms of assistance, including medical expenses, disaster relief, and financial support for funeral arrangements and posthumous publication of their work.