Tomo Campbell talks pushing boundaries, inspiration and the magic of Bangkok's art scene

‘Originally, the paintings were shown on the top floor of the tallest building and I liked the idea of them being literally at the top as if they’d gone beyond the limit, pushing things further and asking what might come after that.’

‘But also, in English, ‘over the top’ can mean something extra, something beyond expectations. That really captures how I’ve felt here – the way I’ve been looked after and how much effort everyone’s put into making this happen. I thought the title was a bit playful at first, but it’s also my way of showing appreciation for everything that’s been done for me.’

‘I'm really excited. I came here for the first time last year and that’s when we started talking about doing an exhibition. I was keen from the start. I love it here – the people are amazing and the city has such great energy. It’s probably one of my favourite places. I mean, I love cities like New York too, but Bangkok has so much going on. It feels like a really exciting time to be here.’

‘That’s a good question. The idea is that the paintings feel a bit unfinished or not quite fixed – so they stay fluid. That way, when someone looks at them, they can go on their own journey and find their own meanings in the work.’

‘If a painting is too figurative, it feels like I’m telling a specific story. But if it’s too abstract, it might feel too distant or inaccessible. I’m trying to land somewhere in between – to draw people in, encourage them to keep looking and hopefully discover something new each time. It’s about creating work that people can keep coming back to.’

‘Yes, exactly. I think it's a bit like reading a short story — it sets the scene, but it doesn't give you everything. It's not like a novel with a clear ending. I prefer to offer ideas that people can take and run with. Hopefully, it becomes a source of inspiration for them, rather than something that's just about me.’

‘I think it’s something that’s evolved over time. I’m always buying new paints and I’ve got a big pile of them. The colour palette changes as things come and go. I tend to gravitate towards colours that aren’t too solid. I like ones that feel misty because they help create movement. If the colour is too saturated, it feels still to me. I prefer colours that blend and flow, giving a sense of fluidity.’

‘I think they’re quite happy paintings. To be honest, when I choose colours, I don’t overthink it – I just focus on what works and what doesn’t. Sometimes things clash, but that actually helps the painting have energy. It’s not all beautiful colours. Sometimes I’ll use neon pink with a harsh green or brown and the challenge is figuring out how to make that work. It makes things harder for me, but that’s the point – it pushes me to work harder.’

‘I want the viewer to feel a little confused at first, to be thrown off by distractions. The colour choices help create that dynamic. But I don’t really plan ahead; I just start and see where it takes me.’

‘I think Bangkok’s art scene is amazing. There’s so much happening, especially with events like the Bangkok Art Biennale, which started in 2018. Then there’s the Art Garden and the new museum opening soon. It really feels like there’s a lot going on. I believe Bangkok is going to become bigger in the art world.’

‘I was actually talking to someone earlier about how many of my paintings have references to Western art history and I’ve been curious to see if people in Thailand recognise those references. It made me realise that I want to start incorporating more Asian influences into my work. One artist I really admire is Jiab Prachakul. I love her storytelling. We’ve messaged a few times and I really admire how her figures feel unreal but still tell a story. It’s not like a photograph; it’s something more unique. I’ve drawn inspiration from her, especially in terms of composition. I think her work is incredible, and I definitely like to borrow from other artists.’

‘Best. Place. Ever.’