Emon Surakitkoson is a Thai-born artist who immigrated to the USA in 2005. After a career in hospitality, she began her career as a professional painter in 2020. Emon's work reflects her experiences of adapting to a new culture, focusing on themes of belonging and shared human connections.
With a commitment to demonstrating strength and resilience, Emon employs heavy power tools to craft her materials, symbolizing her journey through the challenges of cultural transition. Based in Baltimore, she transforming her immigrant experiences into expressions of community and unity, echoing the lessons her grandfather imparted about imagination and craft.
Her artwork is deeply rooted in the rich traditions and crafts of Thailand, honoring her heritage while exploring the connections that transcend cultural boundaries. Emon utilizes her art as a unique language to engage viewers, evoking emotions that foster a sense of equality and belonging. While she occasionally references early 20th-century Western design, her primary inspiration stems from her cultural background and a profound appreciation for creativity.
Her clients include Kimpton Hotel, Marriott International, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Capital One, and American Express. Beyond her artistic practice, Emon mentors local students and organizes events to support artists in the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore area. She is committed to building a support system that helps younger artists gain confidence and develop their creative voice. She has collaborated with organizations such as Strathmore and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. As a member of the Advisory Board of Arts for Global Development, she brings her perspective as an artist and cultural connector to help promote global understanding through the arts.