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Vikanda

"I work very hard at painting, for I believe that if we are not better at something, we should be more diligent. This can lead to success. I believe in doing what we love to, what you want to do. Just do it! Then happiness will come to you.

"Sawasdee kha! My name is Vikanda Suwanpitak, but you can call me by my nickname, Ying, which means 'woman.' I was born October 3, 1985 in Chiang Mai, and have a younger brother who is very, very tall for his age – just over six feet. My father, a military officer, moved to northern Thailand in 1984. We are a warm family, and we lived in a military village surrounded by friendly and very kind neighbors.

"My father and my brother sometimes help me with my painting. My brother is studying electronics but he is very interested in art too. After watching me paint almost every day, he asked me to teach him. He learned quickly and very well. Our father drives me to different places most of the time, and I feel like we are an artist family.

"I've loved art and painting since I was very young. My parents saw this talent and suggested I study art. So I graduated with a BA in fine art from the Rajamangala Institute of Technology after majoring in art in vocational and high schools.

"At one point, I thought about changing my major to architecture like most of my friends, even though I'd have to start over and repeat my first year in the university. But I chose to believe in myself instead of following my friends, and that was the most important decision of my life. I would like to study for a master's degree at Thailand's famous art school, the Silapakorn University in Bangkok.

"When participating in art contests, I've taken first place most of the time. Each one had many entrants with excellent paintings, so I analyze how I can win and always have a few paintings to enter.

"I love to travel to developing countries like Vietnam and Laos where I see friendly people and experience different cultures.

"I feel happy when someone loves my paintings. My parents are proud of me and I'm so proud of myself. I never think about quitting – I love it and will paint as long as I can in this life. Please consider opening your minds to art, visiting galleries and museums. Then you will realize that our lives are more than we are and you'll feel what art can do."