Buying a wedding dress is every woman’s dream, and in most cases, a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Juffy Joob is a local artist who feels that certain characteristics that cats possess can be related to women.
It is with this thought, that she has dedicated many art pieces towards cats, and weddings.
Juffy Joob recently showcased her latest collection “Bridal Cat” with fellow artist Soon Papan on August 1 at Boathouse Bar & Grill. The Phuket News headed down there to chat to the artist and find out more.
Juffy Joob worked several jobs before becoming an artist. And it wasn’t until she met fellow artist Soon Papan, who opened up his art world to her, that she became one, and from then they started to share their love for art together.
Juffy Joob said, “I learned all about painting and drawing from him. I finished my first painting last August (2014). So for the last year I’ve been exploring my art side, and now I have completed 13 of my own art pieces.”
Some of her artworks were sold to a well-known businessman, who took them back to Germany. Others have been sold to businessmen in Phuket.
Juffy Joob said, “Cats are like a symbol of women. I like cats so much, that I feel like women have a connection with them.
“We have many types of cats here in Thailand, and they are well-known to foreigners.
“Thai cats are more special than other cats. Some of them are referred to as ‘Wichianmat’ meaning ‘moon diamond’”.
“Siamese cats also became one of the most popular breeds in Europe and North America in the 20th century. There are plenty of lovely cats around, some more special than others.”
Another interesting signature of Juffy Joob’s works is the little crown on her cats’ heads, more commonly recognised on the head of a traditional Baba-Yaya (Peranekan) Phuket bride on her wedding day. The crown and wedding dress together make up the pieces to a woman’s dream wedding.
In Phuket, you will find traditional wedding dresses, usually a mix of local Thai and Chinese styles.
The symbol of the crown is pretty unique. The flower and butterfly components symbolise love and relationships, while the swan represents strength and elegance.
Khao Manee, a painting of a white cat in a traditional wedding costume can be seen beautifully presented in acrylic form on canvas. It was created to represent the mix between the special species of the Thai cat and Baba-Yaya bride.
This in fact was the star of the show. Anyone that walked in couldn’t take their eyes off this painting.
Juffy Joob’s exhibition showcased quite a unique collection of art and it will be on display until September 30.
For more information on the artist, visit www.facebook.com/nongjoob