Creative Buddhist Art: Designing Buddhist Art with Natural Materials and Leftovers by a New Generation of Artists in Chiang Mai

Abstract

This research article aims to: (1) study natural materials and waste that can be utilized in the creation of Buddhist art; (2) design and produce Buddhist artworks from such materials by young artists in Chiang Mai Province; and (3) transfer and apply the outcomes for the benefit of local networks. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating documentary research, quantitative research, qualitative research, and action research. The quantitative phase collected data from 36 participants, including young artists, senior artists, and members of local art associations. The qualitative phase employed in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 54 key informants comprising monks, artists, academics, and experts. The research findings were extended to five subdistricts and ten temples/communities in Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province. The results emphasized the development of knowledge, creative management, the preservation and continuation of Buddhist art values, and the promotion of sustainable environmental conservation

The research results found that

          1) Natural materials and waste suitable for creating Buddhist art include incense sticks, candles, flowers, fragrant items, or “Khandhamala,” as well as ritual flowers used in religious ceremonies, which are distinctive local cultural elements.

          2) The design of Buddhist art using natural materials and reused items by a group of young artists in Chiang Mai province reveals key steps: 1) sculpting the prototype of the celestial being on the wall of the Chedi at Wat Ched Yod, divided into four stages: building the clay armature, sculpting detailed features, adding decorative patterns, until the prototype is completed; 2) creating silicone rubber molds; 3) mold-making process; 4) casting process.

3) The group of young artists applied Buddhist art made from natural reused materials within networks in Chiang Mai. They exhibited nine sculptures of seated celestial beings with hands in the prayer gesture, made from natural reused materials, at the nine research-area temples and among youth groups to promote learning about waste management from offering materials. This initiative fosters environmental awareness and responsibility at the temple and community levels, leading to efficient waste management, pollution reduction, improved quality of life, and more livable communities in Chiang Mai, with potential for expansion to other areas in the future.