The public has been posting condolences left, right and centre after learning that avid art collector and former pop singer/composer turned Bangkok University Rector, Petch Osathanugrah has passed away at the age of 68.

Teens of the ’90s are familiar with Petch for his hit song ‘I’m Just a Man’ (Mai Chai Phoo Wiset), which was a unique electronic pop number at that time. In business circles, he was likely well-known as the eldest son of Surat of the Osathanugrah family, one of Thailand’s conglomerates. However, his character and almost everything about him was miles away from the prototype of a rich kid and his frizzy hair made him almost weird in that era, at least compared to others.

He was also a founder of Spa Advertising (now Spa-Hakuhodo), while his most recent role was as the Rector of Bangkok University, where he introduced numerous innovative approaches to education to align with the needs of today’s job market including a bold move to cooperate with the MasterClass platform to provide over 150 streamed classes to the students.

Narrowing it down to the art circle, people would know Petch as an avid art collector and art patron. He supported countless art projects and independent films, providing creative input and even financial assistance. Most of the time, he aided the art society out of passion rather than seeking commercial gain or recognition.

“Surprised and deeply saddened by the news today. Thank you, Petch, for every opportunity, every piece of advice, and constant support. I believe that the various museum projects that are about to come to life, fuelled by your unique love for art as an artist like no other, will continue to thrive and greatly benefit the Thai art scene. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathies go out to all the members of your family,” says Luckana Kunavichayanont, former director of Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.

Petch’s brainchild – an art museum – is now under construction and perhaps it was one of his biggest projects, one born out of his love and passion for the arts.

He was a role model and many times his ideas were far ahead of their time as music lovers witnessed when he rolled out his first album. His album was critically acclaimed, and while it wasn’t a commercial success, the songs, especially  title song “I’m just a man”, have gone down through the generations and are still played today.

He might have only released two albums but  inspired many. Upon hearing the news of his passing, veteran singer Rawiwan Chinda wrote on her social media account” “Farewell brother  Petch Osathanugrah who has always been my inspiration on everything to do with creativity.”

Leading Thai designer/businessman Polpat Asavaprapha also mourned the death of Petch on his social media where he described  him as “Strange or weird”, well-educated and a respected person in the 80’s. “…Being who you are and creating the universe that you want to be in is so inspiring and it had a massive positive impact on me. Your talent, your creativity, your vision, your music and among other things, your passion and your humility will be missed.”

Petch released two albums, both of which are decades ago. His debut album, titled “Ordinary… It’s Just Ordinary,” (Thammada Mun Pen Ruang Thammada) was released in 1987, and his second album, titled “Let’s Talk About Love,” came out in 2007. His notable songs include “I’m just a man” (Mai Chai Phoo Wiset) and “Din Kan Mai Lung” (literally, “wanna dance uncle?”). In addition to his music career, he also wrote and directed for TV programmes such as “Women Today” and the magazine “Women Today.”

Petch also initiated the construction of the “Petch” architectural landmark (BU Diamond) at Bangkok University Rangsit Campus, which has become a significant landmark and transformed the facility into a Creative University. The building also received an award from the ARCASIA Awards for Architecture 2011 in the Public Amenity: Institutional Building category.

With his works and determination to pursue his passions and dreams, Petch received recognition from all circles he set foot in. He will be greatly missed for his contributions to society, as well as for his bravery and creativity. After all, he – unlike his song – was not an ordinary man at all.

By Thai PBS Feature Desk