FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR, 56TH STUDIO, MULTIDISCIPLINARY DESIGN AGENCY
Industry : The Arts
Saran Yen Panya is a Thai designer and art director whose work spans product design, visual storytelling and cultural commentary. He is the founder of 56th Studio, a multidisciplinary creative agency based in Bangkok known for blending industrial design with narrative-driven visual experiences. His projects often explore the communicative potential of objects, integrating elements from branding, interior design, animation and installation art.
Yen Panya holds a degree in industrial design from Chulalongkorn University and furthered his studies in storytelling at Konstfack University College of Arts, Crafts and Design in Stockholm. His time in Sweden influenced his appreciation for Thai aesthetics, leading him to embrace a style he describes as “organised chaos” which reflects the contradictions and contrasts inherent in Thai society.
One of his notable projects includes the “Cheap Ass Elites” furniture series which juxtaposes inexpensive plastic materials with high-end Victorian design elements, challenging perceptions of taste and value. He has also collaborated with international brands such as Dior where he incorporated traditional Thai craftsmanship into contemporary designs, including a functional tuk-tuk and bespoke chairs, highlighting local materials and techniques.
Beyond commercial projects, Yen Panya is committed to social impact through his initiative Citizen of Nowhere. This platform supports underrepresented Thai artisans including those with autism by promoting their handcrafted textiles and integrating them into modern design contexts.
His work often delves into themes of cultural identity, sustainability and the reinterpretation of traditional motifs. For instance, he reimagined the traditional Thai Khon mask by incorporating elements inspired by pop culture, sparking discussions on the balance between preservation and innovation in cultural artefacts.
Yen Panya continues to influence the design landscape by challenging norms and encouraging a dialogue between tradition and contemporary practice. His multidisciplinary approach and commitment to storytelling through design make him a significant figure in both Thai and international creative communities.
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