A fashion designer by training, Phannapast Taychamaythakool ’s stellar portfolio includes several collaborations with Gucci, most notably Gucci ArtWall in New York in 2018. Known as “Yoon” to her fans and friends, she has also worked with brands like Vespa, Casetify, and Sulwhasoo.
In November, the artist will showcase her Celestial Guardians collection at her exhibition in Singapore, “Celestial Rainbows: The Lost Zodiac of Summer Palace”. These works offered a modern twist to the traditional Chinese zodiac, as she explained during an email interview with a+.
Through these pieces, Yoon, who is of Chinese-Thai descent, hopes to encourage others to understand themselves better. “Everyone can relate to the archetypes of the Chinese zodiac animals. Each carries a unique personality people can connect with,” she says.
“When I paint these zodiac animals, it feels like I’m exploring hidden parts of myself, uncovering new perspectives I hadn’t fully seen before. Every stroke on the canvas feels like a journey into my own psyche. It excites me to think about other aspects of my identity that might come through as I continue to work on it.”
We love the whimsical fairy-tale quality in your works. What inspires you?
I’m inspired by mythology, folklore, and narratives that open up entire worlds for me. It’s not about creating a forbidden fantasy, but rather using these stories as a key to unlock the hidden layers of the human mind. I take these myths and find new ways to interpret them in a modern, personal context.
In many ways, I’m creating my own universe through my art. Like Hansel and Gretel, I follow a trail of breadcrumbs, gathering pieces of meaning as I go. Through storytelling, I’m constantly seeking my way home to a personal space of peace and freedom where I can fully express myself. It’s more than just imagination—it’s a journey inwards, as I collect insights and emotions from these ancient stories and bring them to life through my art.
Which character would you be in your own fairy-tale: princess, prince, villain, witch, or dragon?
I feel like I embody all these characters at different points in my journey—princess, prince, villain, witch, even dragon! It’s like Joseph Campbell’s The Hero’s Journey, where we all have these archetypes within us that guide our transformation. Creating art, however, makes me think of myself as a magician.
A magician takes all the elements—imagination, emotion, and myth—and merges them to create something new. Weaving together stories and symbols to unlock new worlds is when I feel most free. Like a magician, I’m constantly shaping and reshaping my universe through my art, drawing out the hidden magic in every piece.
There is a high demand for your art among collectors. How do you build
relationships with them?
The key to building strong relationships with collectors is all about freedom. My art is for everyone, including collectors. When they look at my work, I want them to find something that speaks to them personally, something that resonates with their experiences and emotions. I see it as a journey we’re on together.
My role is to create with authenticity while they get to interpret it in a way that suits them. It is this mutual respect that keeps our relationship alive and growing. The shared exploration builds a strong connection, and I appreciate their love and support.
You studied fashion design. In your work as an artist, what lessons did you take away from that experience?
Fashion design taught me that nothing stands out without a reason, and how humans empower ourselves and craft our own stories through creative expression. Everything has a purpose, even if that purpose is playful or unconventional. I am fascinated by how people have used fashion to survive, celebrate, and narrate their stories.
Fashion design also taught me that creativity can have a sense of humour. As with perfume, fashion and art become more intriguing when there is an element of surprise or irony. As an artist, I carry this playful perspective into my work.
Your designs have appeared on jewellery, smartphone cases, mooncake boxes, and tea sets. How do you balance commercial projects with artistic ones?
When balancing commercial and artistic projects, I always trust my instincts. In my creative process, gut feelings guide me like an inner compass. When I tap into that, my imagination takes over and brings everything to life, like Cinderella’s fairy godmother who transforms a pumpkin into a magical chariot. The medium and purpose of the design are also crucial. They shape how I approach each project and ensure the final piece fits its context while conveying my artistic vision.
With such a full plate, how do you set aside me-time?
I always find little moments of me-time throughout the day. I love to relax by drawing in my journal—it helps me unwind and reflect in a creative way. I also enjoy sewing dolls, and I even repair vintage ones like a little doll doctor! There’s something soothing about bringing old things back to life.
Music is another big part of my personal time. Right now, I’m really into Rosie Lowe—her music is so dreamy, it makes me feel like I can daydream even when I’m wide awake. And, of course, I can never say no to an aroma massage. It’s my go-to for relaxation when I need to truly unwind.
What’s next for you?
Currently, I am focusing on falling in love and exploring life from a new perspective. I can’t escape art, though. It will always be part of my life. I will continue to create, discover, and express myself through my work. I hope to live to 90, still painting and dancing, and enjoying every moment of life and creativity.
Details of “Celestial Rainbows: The Lost Zodiac of Summer Palace” here.
