Salakyom : New imaginary images towards contemporary art

Abstract

A study of "SALAKYOM : New Imaginary Images Towards Contemporary Art" aims to 1) explore the context of SALAKYOM, encompassing its historical background, oral narratives, philosophical ideas, beliefs, patterns, and current circumstances; 2) utilize the knowledge gained from researching SALAKYOM as a source of inspiration for creating contemporary art, in order to reflect the cultural values inherent within the tradition. This involves studying documents, ideas, theories, research works, and related artworks within the historical, narrative, belief, and structural contexts of SALAKYOM. The research area encompasses Rim Ping and Pratu Pa sub-districts, as well as dye lottery events held at Wat Phra That Hariphunchai in Lamphun province. The gathered data will be analyzed and synthesized to establish concepts and techniques for creating contemporary art, presented in the form of narratives and proposals for innovative artistic creations. The findings suggest that 1) SALAKYOM plays a significant role within various communities in Lamphun province. Initially, it was a tradition specifically for young Thai women. However, with the globalization of cultural trends, it has transformed into a commodity that fosters connections among people. Presently, it has become a province-wide tradition promoted for tourism, making it known to people outside the community. This tradition promotes inclusivity among individuals of all genders and ages while preserving cultural values and aspects of the tradition. Moreover, it incorporates Buddhist principles and beliefs to link with contemporary activities. 2) The researcher has created contemporary art inspired by the beliefs associated with the Sak Yom tradition to reflect its cultural values, both in terms of Buddhism and the belief that the merit earned by Thai Yong women who offer a Sak Yom tree is equivalent to that earned by men who are ordained. This work also includes participation in the new area of the Sak Yom tradition, which is the world's only Sak Yom festival. Using computer techniques, the audience is provided with an aesthetic experience and access to the imaginative scenes recreated in 3D. The creation of this contemporary art has led to the observation of the relationship between the artworks and the audience. This relationship arises from the complex forms and spatial divisions of the different sets of works, which, while distinct, are interconnected and integrate the entire narrative. These efforts aim to reflect the same values and content, ultimately allowing the audience to understand and create experiences from interpreting the artworks through their connections. This results in the formation of what is known as intertextuality. The outcomes of this can extend to further creative work, the development of innovative media formats, and the dissemination of modern media to create aesthetic experiences and communicate with future audiences.