National artist Prayat Pongdam, who drew illustrations for Mahajanaka, passed away yesterday morning aged 79.
National artist Prayat Pongdam with some of his famous works. He passed away yesterday morning at the age of 79.
His children posted a photo of their father creating an art work on a Facebook page with their farewell message.
"Dad has departed peacefully. He will be in our memories forever."
Learning of the news, Culture Minister Vira Rojpojchanarat mourned the loss of an artist who was recognised for his excellence in printmaking art and for co-working with five other artists in illustrating Mahajanaka.
His Majesty the King's literary work, Mahajanaka is a story of one of the previous lives of the Lord Buddha.
The theme of it is perseverance.
In addition to his contribution to the book, Prayat's works included paintings that depicted the atmosphere of daily Thai life, Mr Vira said.
Prayat was born in Sing Buri on Oct 28, 1934.
His upbringing in the countryside inspired some of his most famous works.
He came to Bangkok to study at Pohchang Academy of Arts and Silpakorn University where he graduated with a Bachelor's degree in painting.
Prayat continued his studies at L'Accademia di Belle Art in Rome, Italy, where he received a diploma in decoration.
In 1963, Prayat received the Accademico Onorario Classe Incisione (engraving) from L'Accademia Fiorentina Delle Arti Del Disegno in Italy.
He was honoured as a national artist in printmaking art in 1998.
The royal bathing rites for Prayat were held yesterday evening at Wat Thep Sirin.
His funeral will be held until next Friday before a royal cremation the following day.
Another national artist, Thawan Duchanee, who was well known for paintings, sculptures and Buddhism art, passed away on Sept 3.
