Integration Material for Reuse in Creative Lanna Buddhist Art: Case study: Doi Phrabat Temple, Rob Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

This research has three objectives: 1) to survey and analyze reusable materials suitable for creating Buddhist art, 2) to develop material techniques and design forms for Lanna Buddhist art, and 3) to expand the use of reusable materials in creating Lanna Buddhist art. The study involved key informants, including 5 monks, 4 scholars, 4 artisans, 5 members of the public/devotees, and 4 students. Data were analyzed from documents, fieldwork, and interviews to effectively integrate reusable materials into the creation of Buddhist art.

          The research results revealed that:

          1) At Wat Doi Phra Bat, the suitable leftover material found was grade 304 stainless steel, which is strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. It can be reused for the restoration of the Mondop covering the Buddha’s footprint, which is currently damaged. Other materials, such as sand, wood scraps, incense sticks, candles, and flowers, were found unsuitable for constructing permanent structures. Therefore, the stainless steel material meets the temple’s needs and contributes to the creation of Buddhist art values for the sustainable development of the temple.

          2) The development of a Lanna Buddhist art model for the restoration of religious architecture through material science utilized leftover grade 304 stainless steel to construct a Mondop covering the Buddha’s footprint in accordance with the temple’s intention. The development emphasized three key aspects: (1) Form,  consistent with the Mondop of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, adapted into a three-tiered spire reflecting the golden age of Lanna art; (2) Belief,  its hilltop location reflects Buddhist cosmology, symbolizing the Traiphum and the cycle of rebirth; and (3) Technique, the use of stainless steel as a substitute for traditional materials reduces construction costs, structural weight, and maintenance, while also enabling prefabrication for convenient assembly.

          3) The expansion of this approach can transform the value of leftover materials into new forms of worth, including commercial, social, and Buddhist significance. In the case study of Wat Doi Phra Bat, Chiang Rai, leftover grade 304 stainless steel was successfully used to construct a Mondop covering the Buddha’s footprint, enabling efficient material management, reducing costs, and enhancing the spiritual value for the community. This model has also served as an example that can be applied in other temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai and Wat Phra That Lampang Luang in Lampang, allowing them to adopt similar methods for restoring their own religious structures.