I've been working on this lame drawing project for the Thai restaurant -- just when I though I escaped Thailand. When I was there, everyone wanted me to be this loud, extroverted American person that I just am not, and never will be. Now that I am back people value me because I know a lot about Thailand. Someday, I'll do something that really *is* me. Oh well.
click for bigger:

That's just the rough draft, a bunch of paper taped together and scribbled with marker. Also it's only maybe 1/4 done. It's going to be a lot longer. And if you think it sucks, you should see the original -- not only is it not Thai, but the design is horrible. The original artist threw in a bunch of generic Chinese/Asian imagery with some crappy mountains, and everything is off-balance visually.
I spent a lot of time in Thailand reading books and the Bangkok Post, searching for that elusive quintessential Thai-ness -- how is Thai culture different from Asian in general, Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Khmer? How is Thai Buddhism different from Sri Lankan Buddhism, from which it is derived? (Both are Theravada). As it turns out, there are tons of distinguishing traits of Thai culture -- and the Thai people are convinced they are unique, so it's very important not to confuse their culture with others -- especially Chinese. They don't seem to like Chinese stuff very much.
Considering this anthropological study while I was there, and my art background, I almost feel like the perfect person for this job. The only thing is that I've never done real *design*, only fine art. I don't know how to use those fancy computer programs. I hope at least that they can use my drawing in some way. It's supposed to be a silhouette, with lights in the background, going along the ceiling.
I'm going to meet with the restaurant people again tomorrow, and I have a therapy appointment. I don't even know where to start with a new therapist. We'll see how it goes.
And remember:
Only the good things you do matter.

Sula Ray in all her glory