Roongnapa

Artisan Organization: Roongnapa

Country: Thailand

"I was born in Uttaradit, in the lower part of Northern Thailand, in April 1974. My family members are farmers.

"After primary school, I decided to pursue a career in art. I believe that art makes life happier and that it permeates everything around us.

"I had the chance to attend the Department of Ceramics School of Decorative Arts at Silpakorn University and printmaking at Chiang Mai University. I decided to specialize in printmaking at Chiang Mai University because it was less expensive. I was still a novice and far from being an artist, and I believed the printmaking process would be useful in a variety of professions.

"After graduation, I start working for a jewelry company. I began my job by setting up the tools for jewelry manufacturing up to the production line for about a year. After getting promoted, I had the chance to attend a two-year special school in graphic design and eventually become a graphic designer. I frequently had the chance to work with well-known artists when I was employed by that factory — one of them was from Italy and shared a wealth of valuable experience with me.

"While working at the factory, I met my husband, Mr. Yai, a jewelry maker, and we have a daughter. When I felt that my income was enough to support the family, I ask my husband to quit working and take care of our daughter.

"He showed tremendous dedication by quitting his job to take care of our little girl, allowing me to focus on my work. He plays a significant role in my life, and I am grateful for his generous heart. He was behind the scenes in taking care of the family. We both have a passion for making jewelry, and I always support him to explore his passion no matter what the situation.

"In the meantime, we are planning to return to Chiang Mai, where my husband was born, where I studied, and which we both love, since it is a city of inspiration. Once we retire, we want to settle down there.

"I got another chance to manage a jewelry factory not long after that. I have a wealth of experience running a jewelry business there until 2017, when I gave it up. I was prepared to move to Chiang Mai. For many people, leaving a high-paying job may be difficult, but it wasn't for me at all. Being with my family is important to me, but I didn't leave my passion behind. I will continue to produce exquisite art with greater happiness.

"Currently, my husband and I run a small jewelry workshop out of our home, selling our creations to locals and visitors to Chiang Mai's craft market. My husband enjoys his work and his hobbies of gardening, and we also operate a small café at home. We are a happy family who enjoys spending time together and makes time to take care of our health.

"The majority of my work is simple but charming everyday jewelry. I choose the stones by myself. I think that each individual stone is unique in its own way.

"Our next plan is to set up a workshop to help in the development of fine jewelry makers. We are aware that for many of them, attending school or finding employment is difficult. Due to the high cost of tuition at jewelry institutions and expensive tools, it is rare to find exquisite jewelry makers.

"I'm very grateful to my family, especially my sister and parents, who have been my biggest supporters throughout life. Huge thanks to my supportive husband as well as the factories I work with that provide me with worthwhile opportunities and experiences. I am confident that you will like our jewelry that brings joy to everyone.""