I have a 'special' artistic skill which, if at all, is not easy to find anyone with in Thailand. Is it possible to obtain a work permit based on having a specific special skill so as to be able to practice such skill and also possibly introduce it to some Thai artisans through seminars/workshops? Starting a business and meeting the criteria to do so is really not an option.

Can anyone provide useful information?

You get a work permit when you have found an employer willing to employ you. A work permit is tied to the employer and job you are hired for. A change of emloyer or function, means you need a new Work Permit.

It is not the case that if you have a work permit you can work anywhere.

You get a work permit when you have found an employer willing to employ you. A work permit is tied to the employer and job you are hired for. A change of emloyer or function, means you need a new Work Permit.

It is not the case that if you have a work permit you can work anywhere.

I am not 'employable' as there are no companies practising the craft that I specialize in. 2M Baht and hiring 4 Thais is not going to happen. I'm asking if there is a permit to be an independent artisan as I wish to display my work, sell if there are interested parties, and take on commissions if something comes my way.

Sounds to me like you are going to have to form a company and then have your company obtain a work permit for you based upon this supposed special skill that you have

I remember a post about a guy up in Chaing Mai that was busted selling portraitures at a market and they were only 20 THB apiece

Thai labour law doesn't provide for your situation. Setting up company, or working for someone (an art college?) are your only choices.

...I'm asking if there is a permit to be an independent artisan as I wish to display my work, sell if there are interested parties, and take on commissions if something comes my way.

There isn't.

Sounds like a catch 22...you don't get permit without a job but than again you may get a job easier having a work permit already. Not an "universal" one but at least in some concrete area...How about if you're married with a Thai person? Or other alternatives?

re .... I have a 'special' artistic skill which, if at all, is not easy to find anyone with in Thailand

here he is ..... hes on the left ... with the grey shorts on ; )

just joshin ... dave2

If the OP can arrange for an arts or crafts gallery to put on an exhibition / sale of the output of his unspecified artistic skill, he might be able to arrange, based on a letter of invitation from said gallery, for a Non-IMM 'B' for 'doing business' visa but he could do no work under such a visa...

I am relying on his use of the word 'artesian' that there is some tangible output and this is not a performance oriented skill.

Sounds like a catch 22...you don't get permit without a job but than again you may get a job easier having a work permit already. Not an "universal" one but at least in some concrete area...How about if you're married with a Thai person? Or other alternatives?

Marriage does not allow working. A work permit is issued for a specific job so having a work permit for some other job does not help. There is no catch 22. You find a job that will support a work permit and then apply for the work permit.