To the Folk Arts Fellowship Selection Committee, Department of Cultural Affairs of Florida...

"I am happy to recommend Mrs. Pam Maneeratana for a Folk Arts Fellowship.

I have recently become familiar with Mrs. Maneeratana's work, Kae-Sa-Luk, or the Thai skill of fruit and vegetable carving. This 700 year old tradition is passed from master to student in Thailand. As a teenager in Bangkok Mrs. Maneeratana began her studies of Kae-Sa-Luk. She has continued to practice this skill since moving to Tallahassee in 1979.

Her work reflects her ethnic identity and shows clearly how tradition and personal experiences have shaped her aesthetic expression. Her creativity represents a cultural viewpoint and reflects her traditional knowledge. To award a Fellowship to Mrs. Maneeratana would not only encourage this exceptional artist but also enrich the folk arts of Florida."

Sincerely,
Merri Belland
Folklife Specialist

In a thank-you letter to Pam...

"Thank you for the magnificent tape on water melon carving, just watching it brought tears to my eyes, it is so beautiful.

Yes, I will start sending you some pictures of my work. Let me figure out how to do it and of course, give you some samples that are worthy of your judgement.

Thank you for supporting me all these years. It has been an honor and a blessing to call you a friend. I hope we have many more years together....

Love,
Lorraine Bailey

In a thank-you letter to Pam...

"Let me take this opportunity to thank you once again for sharing your extraordinary talent with Violet Garden Circle. It was such an interesting presentation into an art form which was quite new to us.

It was fun for the ladies to get to manipulate the tools of your art and gain an even greater appreciation of the skill and dedication involved in creating your vegetable flowers.

My personal thank-you for helping me out with the program.

Sincerely,
Walli Beall

In a letter of reference...

"It has been a pleasure exhibiting Mrs. Pam Maneertana's work at LeMoyne Art Foundation. She prepared an extensive showing of the Thai art of fruit and carving. In addition, an ART TALK was scheduled and Mrs. Pam Maneeratana gave an informative and exciting demonstration of this art.

This particular exhibit involved a considerable amount of last-minute preparation and presentation, to ensure the freshness and color of the fruits and vegetables used. The Opening night of the exhibition was made extra special and memorable by her willingness to demonstrate her techniques throughout the 7 - 9 p.m. event, and answer all questions concerning the history and cultural aspects of this art form.

It was an unusual opportunity for the Members and public to experience such a demonstration, and I would recommend Pam as an instructor for the community centers."

Linda P. Nolan, Director
LeMoyne Art Foundation, Inc.