Inspired by Thailand’s rich culture and heritage, Thai jeweler Sarran Youkongdee’s began his practice in 2008 with wearable art, characterized by flowers and an artistry that pays homage to women everywhere. His pieces are “amalgamations of elaborate royal handicrafts with modern materials”, blended with other Asian cultures to create an effervescent Asian elegance. His biggest goal is to help Thai women recognize their individual value, which he believes is key to achieving internal strength. He has achieved recognition locally and internationally, recently becoming the first Thai to be selected as a LOOT Acquisition Prize Winner 2018 by Museum of Arts and Design New York. Selected by a jury, it recognizes artists whose work “reflects a maturity in artisty and concept”, while exhibiting a “superior and experimental understanding of materials and form”, and demonstrating expert technique and execution. Sarran says he will continue to personally curate his jewellery through his studio in Soi Somkid and at multi-brand store Club 21, where his work is easily accessible to the public. He also plans to explore international prospects and hopes that his jewelry can be viewed as more than aesthetics, but as a point of pride for women to recognize their self worth.