An Italian-born sculptor and educator who introduced modern art to Thailand and founded the country's first art school, revolutionizing the nation's art scene.
Silpa Bhirasri, born Corrado Feroci, was a Tuscan-born Thai sculptor who revolutionized the art scene in Thailand and is widely regarded as the father of modern art in the country. He is best known for his iconic sculptures and monuments that adorn the cityscape of Bangkok, including the iconic Democracy Monument, Victory Monument, and the statue of King Rama I at Memorial Bridge.
Born on September 15, 1892, in Florence, Italy, Feroci studied at the Royal Art Academy of Florence and later taught there from 1914 to 1923. His early life and education laid the foundation for his future contributions to the art world.
In 1923, Feroci was invited to Thailand to teach Western sculpture at the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Palace Affairs. He was appointed as a sculptor in 1924 on a three-year contract for 800 baht per month. During his time in Thailand, he founded what later became Silpakorn University, the University of Fine Arts, in 1943.
When Italy surrendered to the Allies during World War II, Feroci changed his name to Silpa Bhirasri and became a Thai national in 1944 to avoid arrest by the occupying Japanese army. Previously estranged from his wife in Italy, he married one of his Thai students in his later years.
Silpa Bhirasri's contributions to Thai art and culture are still celebrated today. A Thai commemorative stamp was issued in 1992 on the centenary of his birth, and his birthday, September 15, is observed each year in Thailand as Silpa Bhirasri Day. In 2016, he was featured as a Google Doodle on what would have been his 124th birthday.
Silpa Bhirasri passed away on May 14, 1962. He is buried in the Cimitero Evangelico degli Allori in the southern suburb of Florence, Galluzzo, Italy.
Through his sculptures and monuments, Silpa Bhirasri left an indelible mark on Thai art and culture. His legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and art lovers alike.
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