An Analysis of Local Art Identity and Mutelu Beliefs for the Development of Art Activities : A Case Study of Nan's Textile Handicraft

Abstract

Background and objective: Nan province has tourist attractions based on various cultures, particularly the local textile handicrafts. In addition to being beautiful with colors and delicate weaving, various patterns also interpolate meanings that reflect the beliefs of the Nan people. This is consistent with the trend of participants today, who seek a mental anchor. The purpose of this research was to analyze and discover the relationship between Nan's textile handicraft identity and Mutelu beliefs for the development of art activities.

Methodology: The sample group was experts in Nan textile handicraft, Nan's textile handicrafts and research related to the Nan's textile handicrafts. The research tools were interviews and a survey of the Nan textile handicrafts. Data were collected by interviewing experts in weaving art in Nan province and studying textile art patterns. Then the identity of Nan's textile handicrafts was analyzed to find ways to use folk art identity for the development of art activities. Data were analyzed by percentage and content analysis.

Main result: 1) The art patterns of Nan's textile handicrafts can be divided into: geometric patterns, applique and miscellaneous patterns and natural patterns. Some patterns can be placed in more than one group. 2) There are a total of 12 hues used in Nan's textile handicrafts: white, black, red, purple, magenta, blue, brown, yellow, orange,green, silver and gold. 3) Mutelu beliefs related to the meaning of the patterns and the colors can be divided into seven types: financial and work, education, love, health, safety from danger, attraction of good energy and other aspects.

Relevance to Thai Studies: A study of Nan's textile handicrafts involves a study of Thai material folklore, which can be considered cultural inheritance. A study of Nan's textile handicrafts about Mutelu beliefs and art is a study of ethnic beliefs and wisdom in Nan province, which is one of the provinces of Thailand. This brings attention to important folklore information and shows how Thai studies and design activities can be integrated, which can be used in daily life and to promote tourism, as well as in educational institutions.

Conclusion: The color of the cloth used in Nan Province is related to some meaning according to Mutelu belief in expressing feelings according to Color Psychology theory. This can be applied to marketing, as well as choosing a color that is close to a certain feeling. The significance of Nan's textile handicrafts and Mutelu beliefs is divided into four categories protection, prosperity, worship and fortune, and beauty and soulmate, all of which may be used to create art activities.