Veteran film actor Sombat Methanee is one of the 12 people who have been named national artists for the year 2016 in various fields by the Culture Ministry.
This year's national artists were named at a ceremony chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tanasak Patimapragorn, chairman of the National Culture Commission, at the Culture Ministry on Wednesday.
Also in attendance was Culture Minister Vira Rojpojchanarat.
Of the 12, four were named national artists in the field of visual arts: Khamson Srathong (weaving, handicraft); Decho Buranabanpot (photography); Lawan Upa-in (painting); and Saner Nildej (Thai traditional architecture).
Four were named national artists in the field of literature: Kittisak Meesomsueb; Chuwong Chayachinda; Thanya Sangkhapanthanon; and, Ruang-urai Kusalasai.
Four were awarded the prestigious title in the field of performing arts: Thanis Sriklindee (international music); Buariew Ratanamaneeporn (folk dance); Sombat Methanee (acting, films and dramas); and, Hama Baeluebae (southern folk dance, Dikir Hulu).