Classic, Timeless Art in Khanom

Tucked away in his cottage in Khanom is an artist extraordinaire.

Henk Abels is originally from the Netherlands and made Khanom his home in 2006. Aside from 2 years that he was trapped in Europe during the Covid-19 Pandemic, he happily returned in 2022 to his artistic corner in the village.

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Henk Abels beside some of his artworks

What attracted Henk to Khanom originally was its calm quietness, white beaches and friendly people. Although he concedes he lived on Koh Samui for three years during this time too, he found it ‘too much’ with streams of tourists and never-ending traffic jams.

Speaking about the pros and cons of Khanom, Henk had this to say: “As already mentioned, I love Khanom’s people, the sea, stunning surroundings, the mountains and waterfalls.” The cons are that when he first came here there were no shops, only Chadaporn and a solitary 7 Eleven. Everywhere he went and asked for things he was told “mae mee” (sorry, we don’t have it). Thus, some things change and some don’t, as we know. Still to this day, if you want certain items you need to travel to one of the two bigger cities nearby, being Nakhon Si Thammarat and Surat Thani. “And don’t mention going to the local hospital.” Henk visits the popular Dr. Arak in Bangnod when he feels unwell.

Henk, the artist, at work

As an artist, Henk is inspired by all things beautiful, but painting with oils is his go-to preference, as well as sketching. He loves painting people and one can see how his skill brings features and emotions to life. His painting of tradition scenery captivates one with its nostalgic charm and even his still-life works are the perfect blend of colors and shading, to a degree that one can imagine one of these masterpieces on the wall in the living room, or adorning the bedroom or a lobby wall that is a focal point. 

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a unique painting, evoking a story

Before coming to Thailand, Henk lived in Portugal for eight years and worked mainly in watercolors, holding several successful exhibitions. Here in Thailand he works in oils mainly. He hopes people will be attracted to his artwork here in Thailand too, and there will be a monthly display of his work at Auntie Moon’s Tea Shop in Si Yak (the four-way crossing at Akarawithi and Loma Roads). For example, in September you can expect to see his traditional and local Thai scenes on display and in October it will be his collection of contemporary art showing off musicians and their instruments as well as famous music artists throughout the ages.

Henk paints various genres

If you would like to support Henk’s work, please feel free to contact him for a viewing and for prices.

Henk Abels

Tel: 0807719574

Email: habels68@gmail.com

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