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Published on September 27, 2007

 He said he wanted to remind the public about monks who indulge in vices.

However, the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) urged the Culture Ministry to step in and have the artist in question take responsibility. The Fine Arts Department has also scheduled a meeting to discuss the issue tomorrow.

Artist Anupong Chanthorn yesterday said he was unaffected by the protests because it was normal for artists to be criticised.

The painting is being featured at an exhibition at Silpakorn University's Sanamchan Palace campus in Nakhon Pathom province until October 30.

Explaining that he did not mean to offend Buddhists, Anupong said he only wanted to depict people who used monks' yellow robes as a cover for their sins. He said he had taken inspiration from the Buddhist scriptures.

"I believe there are many good Buddhist monks in Thai society, but there are also some bad people using the yellow robes as a cover to seek personal gains, have sexual relations, gamble and drink.

"Through my art, I want society to realise the existence of such people. I admit the painting looks offensive and people accuse me of insulting the faith. It is not true. I'm a Buddhist and I want to protect the religion, to warn people of this group and to have them watch out," he said.

Culture Minister Khunying Khaisri Sri-aroon said yesterday that General Preecha Rojsen, chairman of the NLA committee on religion, ethics, art and culture, had also sent a letter demanding that the ministry take action and have the contest result reviewed, have Anupong not produce works like this again and scrap all promotions using the controversial painting. The Culture Ministry has passed the letter on to Silpakorn University to do as they see fit, Khaisri said.

Acting deputy rector of the university Yannawit Kunjaethong said he would consult with the judging panel on Friday about the appropriateness of the painting and the possibility of revoking the award.

However, he said, he personally believed that the artist did not mean to offend Buddhists, but merely wanted to reflect ongoing social problems.

The Nation