Born and raised in Thailand, Vipoo Srivilasa—who often goes simply by Vipoo—moved to Australia. Based in Melbourne for more than two decades, his work has engaged with concepts like queerness, migration, and spirituality through ceramics.
Vipoo emphasizes community, accessibility, and an unwavering optimism in elegant yet playful porcelain sculptures (previously). In a range of glazes, from cobalt to gold luster to bright red, his dynamic characters gesture with their fingers in a “V” shape, usually denoting hopeful messages like “peace” or “victory.” Others appear to dance, wave, or cheer.
Titles like “Salutaris, the Patron of Well-being” or “Calma, the Spirit of Tranquility,” designate many of the figures with protective or uplifting roles. Vipoo taps into universal tenets of strong relationships and communities, like trust, fairness, and togetherness.
The artist’s solo exhition re/JOY at the Australian Design Centre highlights a wide range of stories about people’s migration to different parts of Australia. Drawing on personal stories and mementos collected from strangers around the country, he shares diverse experiences that contribute to a collective story.
re/JOY continues through February 19 in Darlinghurst, just outside of Sydney. And accompanying the show, a vibrant new monograph titled Positive Art Work celebrates 25 years of the artist’s career. Find more on Vipoo’s website and Instagram.
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