Pex Pitakpong (full name Pex Pitakpong Jamesripong, pen name Pex) was born in 1971 in Bangkok, where he continues to live and work. He graduated in 1991 with a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication Art from Silpakorn University in Thailand. Since 1998, he has contributed illustrations as a freelance artist for various magazines. His deep love for pop culture, especially manga and animation, ultimately inspired him to pursue a career in fine art. In 2015, he introduced his original character, “Mari,” officially launching his journey in the art world. Pex Pitakpong will hold his first solo exhibition in Japan, Welcome to My World, at Tokyo’s Nanzuka Underground in January 2024.

Pitakpong’s artwork is distinguished by its vibrant colors and unique style, portraying boys and girls dressed as animals, plants, and fantastical beings. These whimsical characters carry symbolic meanings and serve as metaphors for the ways of life among different cultural groups. For example, his new work Akha is inspired by the Akha people, an ethnic group from Asia’s mountainous regions. The Akha practice semi-nomadic farming, maintain their own language, and preserve distinct clothing, traditions, and customs. They also face issues of statelessness, which leads to human rights challenges, poverty, and educational inequalities. Through his work, Pitakpong aims to reflect his concern for and exploration of these complex issues.