Management of local knowledge to develop silverware products into a contemporary identity of the Mien Ethnic Group in Kamphaeng Phet, Thailand

Abstract

This study was conducted with the aim of exploring local knowledge of silverware, management of local silverware knowledge and to develop silverware products into a contemporary identity of the Mien ethnic group in Kamphaeng Phet. This qualitative research adheres to interpretation view processes and had 30 key informants consisting of members of hill tribe silverware groups. Data were collected using interviews, focus groups and participatory observations. Data analysis and presentation using ethnographic research principles found the Mien ethnic group in Kamphaeng Phet to be the largest production site for silverware in Thailand with conservation of ancient patterns and designs in silver handicraft centers, use of modern technology for processing silver handicraft products and items, human and natural dimensions, pattern designs that imitate nature, human dimensions and sacred items in silverware during New Year’s Day events, and human dimension in weddings with expressions of family status. Management of local hill tribe silverware knowledge involved the following four steps; (1) Build inherited local knowledge by observing, memorizing and experimenting through trial and error; (2) Store knowledge by memorizing and storing knowledge in documents, photograph albums and video clips; (3) Disseminate knowledge in families, exchange knowledge in the community and kpru.ac.th; and (4) Use knowledge by processing it into processes for improving hill tribe silverware products into a contemporary identity and produce hill tribe silverware brands consistent with the Mien ethnic group’s identity, develop packages, design and develop new product brands and improve products along with increasing competitive capacity during the COVID-19 era.