Born in 1988 in Bangkok, Thailand, Pan Arniwat established his wood carving brand, Wood You Mind in 2019. Specialising in wooden designer toys, Arniwat has captured the attention of many around the world with his unique style. Characters from popular culture, such as Pokémon and Astroboy, as well as a variety of animals and critters, are rendered in a highly organic manner, as each contour of their rounded bodies is highlighted by the artist’s rustic carving method.
With their pastel palette and softly rendered edges, the wooden characters convey the innocence and carefree nature of childhood, reinventing figures in classical books and anime. As elucidated by Parn, his minimalistic approach to these carvings enhances the work’s ability to communicate with the viewer. Just as one would speak simply to a child, these characters are direct and honest, exuding no more than joy and contentment.