NANTHANA BOONLA-OR
In December 2019, students from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) in Singapore participated in an immersive cultural and educational program hosted by the Social and Cultural Innovation Lab of the School of Architecture and Design at King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT). The program, held from December 2nd to 22nd, provided an intensive learning experience focused on traditional Thai folk crafts, particularly bamboo wickerwork. Asst. Prof. Nanthana Boonlaor, a lecturer in the Industrial Design program at KMUTT, delivered an indepth lecture covering Thailand's rich heritage in bamboo wickerwork. The lecture highlighted the basic patterns and forming techniques used in this craft, along with the cultural significance of vernacular artifacts. The students were then guided in creating their own bamboo products under the close supervision of expert artisans, who provided handson advice and shared their specialized knowledge. As part of the program, the group visited several key cultural sites, including the homes of craftsmen in Ang Thong, the Queen Sirikit International Crafts Center in Ayutthaya, and Khun Pranee's house in Chonburi. These visits offered the students the opportunity to learn and practice traditional weaving techniques, some of which are rare or nearly forgotten. In Sakon Nakhon province, the students also participated in workshops focused on broommaking and indigo dyeing techniques. The knowledge and skills gained through these experiences provided the NAFA students with a strong foundation in Thai folk crafts. This foundation would not only influence their future work in wickerwork and woodwork but also inspire them to apply these techniques to other materials, ensuring the continuation and evolution of these traditional crafts in contemporary design contexts.
Field Visits: The group visited cultural sites in Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Chonburi, and Sakon Nakhon to learn traditional weaving, broommaking, and indigo dyeing techniques from local craftsmen. Lecture and HandsOn Training: Students from NAFA received an indepth lecture on Thai bamboo wickerwork and engaged in practical sessions to create their own bamboo products under the guidance of expert artisans Workshops: Students participated in specialized workshops, gaining handson experience in traditional Thai crafts.
1) Crafted Bamboo Products: Students created bamboo products using traditional techniques. 2) Skill Development: Gained knowledge and practical skills in Thai folk crafts. 3) Design Inspiration: Acquired cultural insights and techniques for future design projects. 4) Cultural Exchange: Enhanced appreciation and understanding of Thai cultural crafts.
Bangkok
