Lot Essay
Uttaporn Nimmalaikaew has developed a singular method of using mixed media to construct his evanescent and diaphanous characters. Printed on layers of screen with translucent threads and suspended in a complex configuration of interweaves and crossings, which run through these layers, Imagination of Life No. 1 suggests a sense of fragility of the young girl. Nimmalaikaew renders her hands and feet exposed and her features blurred out to further emphasize a sense of vulnerability within the work. Nimmalaikaew's work commences with a painted backdrop set in a deep shadow box, which comes to life through lightly veiled layers of thread and netting. In order to produce his dimensional shimmering scenes, he paints on the canvas as well as the thread and netting. Nimmalaikaew's genius lies in the way he creates with astonishing flair and technique, going beyond three-dimensionality to capture time, space and spirit within the casement, halting a moment and retaining its essence.