From senses to a state of mind: new imagery from beliefs of Tung Lanna

Abstract

Tung Lanna originated from surreal tales and Buddhist beliefs about defilements, karma, retribution, merit, and sin. Formation is the local wisdom used in rituals connected with the human spirit. There are many forms, shapes, sizes, colors, patterns, materials, including the symbols of animals representing the year of birth. or instead of greed, anger, delusion, and mindfulness, such as crocodiles, centipedes, mermaids, turtles, etc., I have adopted a multi-sensory approach arising from external media connected to the 6 internal senses: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body and mind, combined with beliefs about karma in Buddhism. It has hidden in the meaning of Tung Lanna leading to access to a different feeling of aesthetics, beauty and value from the legend of Tung Lanna in a new way. In the thesis titled From senses to a state of mind: New imagery from beliefs of Tung Lanna. The objective is to study the myths and legends to create a new image from the Tung Lanna beliefs to be able to really touch. in the form of installation art and interaction art using the method of studying the history content and form of Tung Lanna. Study of surreal myths and beliefs about karma in Buddhism by reviewing the literature and go to an unstructured interview repository with local artisans or Sala. Study the art form of installation art and interaction art. Study of multi-sensory approaches affecting human perception to bring all of collected data to analyze and synthesize it into a prototype sketch and used to create art exhibitions that emphasize the use of local materials with modern ready-made materials. The results of the study on the historical background, content, and forms of Tung Lanna region, along with the culture of Chiang Mai, reveal their connection to the genuine narratives and moral beliefs within Buddhist teachings. Beyond the conventional rituals associated with Tung, there lies a matter of transformation and the juxtaposition of opposing dualistic concepts. This separation and transformation are evident in the various forms of Tung that continue to be categorized based on ritual usage and serve as distinct cultural symbols for effective cultural communication. These forms have consistently adapted and evolved through the creative fusion and reinterpretation by innovators. In terms of legends and moral beliefs, the researcher linked the underlying beliefs of Tung to core Buddhist principles such as karma, merit, sin, and virtuous deeds. These beliefs are connected to the spiritual well-being of human beings and serve as inspiration for artistic creation. The creative process unveils a methodology involving the study of historical patterns, legends, karma, Buddhist mental states, semiotic theories, sensory perceptions, artistic arrangement, and interaction. These elements combine to create new symbolism and imagery from Tung. The resulting artistic outputs include two sets: "The Spirit of Protection" and " The Whirlpool of Animals within the Mind." These works engage viewers in participation and offer an opportunity for profound experiences and insights. The study also finds a connection between Lanna cultural heritage and contemporary global perspectives, achieved through the presentation of Tung art to stimulate imagination and foster understanding.This process leads to the acquisition of three primary types of knowledge: 1)The principles of studying and transforming the original meaning into new interpretations. 2) The principles of artistic creation to stimulate viewer imagination through sensory experiences, impacting mental states and emotions. 3) The principles of creating new perspectives and understanding through viewer participation, interaction, and questioning of Lanna cultural beliefs and concepts.