Thai Art

Traditional Thai Art, originating mainly in the religious form, is inseparable from the imagery and association of Buddha. Thailand emerged out of an elaborate monarchical history and varied socio-cultural blending. These also get reflected in Thai art which revived classical art with modern characteristics.

Classical Thai art revealed its importance to Buddhism and Sangha-the community through the casting of WATS and casting of Buddha images which has been patronized by every Buddha king. The Wat, besides enshrining bronze or stucco statues of Buddha had to be decorated with mural paintings as well as wood carvings and lacquer works. The Wat was considered as the highest expression of Thai art for around 800 years. The art of Buddha casting was actually an act of glory in the past.

In the past the people of Thailand had great demands for minor arts like jewellery, niello, embossed silver, textile etc. Traditional arts like religious structures and Buddha statues were also in great demand.

The paintings were found in the illustration of books and decoration of buildings, mainly palaces and temples. In these paintings, the subjects were presented in 2D without paying much attention to the perspective. The size of each element of painting would be directly proportional to its degree of importance. The paintings represented stories of Jataka, frames from the life and times of Buddha, and images of heaven and hell. The perspective was introduced in mid-19th century as a western impression.

‘Relief’ is an art form of intricate wooden carvings that produced ornate, 3D details. This type of art form and other forms of engraved art form wooden filigrees are still produced in ample numbers.

The Sukhothai period depicted Buddha in an elegant form that displayed spiritual brilliance rather than conforming to anatomical details. Carving was replaced by casting images in metal. During this time the models of Buddha depicted him in accordance with his definitions in ancient Pali texts.

Glazed ceramic modeled in the Sangkhalok style were extensively produced and traded outside the country.

The Ayutthaya period saw a whole range of artistic creations that ranged from Buddha figures formed out of juxtaposed rows of stones, colossal bronze, brick and stucco images of Buddha to decoration of gold-leaf in free-form designs on a lacquer background. This was followed by more elaborate images of royal attire set on embellished bases.

The Ayutthaya style made further developments in the ‘Ratanakosin’ or ‘Bangkok’ period. The Organization of the Ten Crafts or Krom Chang Sop Mu contributed towards the enhancement of the Thai craftsmen.

Modern Thailand has shifted from traditional art forms to new expressions, initiated by the spirit of new social development. The young artists prefer to reveal themselves in the modern way rather the tried and tested conventional form. This has actually led to a drive to preserve the traditional style against the supposed modernization.

However, the old school of Thai art continues to remain in its value and beauty while creating simultaneously with the creations of the new folk who are more into individual expressions rather than repetition and imitation of the past. Chakrapan Posayakrit and Chalermchai Kositpipat are some of the notable names of this generation.

Chiang Mai attracts many artists as it provides a perfect environment for people wanting to pursue artistic ambitions. The arts department of Chiang Mai University organizes cultural performances and exhibitions on a regular basis to encourage students.
 

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