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. As a self-taught artist, 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 draws inspiration from the local art scene, 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 Headquarters, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Capital One and American Express. Beyond her artistic practice, Emon mentors local students in art and organizes events to support artists in the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD area. She has collaborated with organizations such as the Hilton brothers' H2 Collective, Strathmore, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Her goal is to create a support system for younger artists to build the confidence that she believes is integral to finding their own creative voice.