The Transmission of Faith through Tai Lue Woven Textiles in Contemporary Craft Art

Abstract

        This research aims: 1. to study the cultural context of Tai Lue woven textiles, focusing on their history, identity, and motifs in the Upper Northern region of Thailand; and 2. to create contemporary craft artworks that express Buddhist faith through the synthesis of cultural knowledge derived from Tai Lue weaving traditions. The study was conducted in Chiang Mai, Nan, and Phayao Provinces. This research employed a creative art-based methodology consisting of two key phases. The first phase involved studying Tai Lue culture through relevant documents, concepts, theories, previous research, and artistic works. The second phase focused on creative production—analyzing and synthesizing data to formulate concepts and techniques for developing Contemporary Craft Art using Mixed Media Art approaches. The research outcomes are presented in both descriptive form and creative artworks. The results revealed that: 1. Tai Lue woven textiles represent valuable cultural heritage, serving as a “symbol of time” that connects stories from the past to the present through the meticulous craftsmanship and spiritual devotion of Tai Lue women. Each textile design reflects the community’s way of life, beliefs, and identity. The textiles can be categorized into two types—those used in daily life and those used in rituals. The major motifs are classified into four groups: geometric patterns, animal motifs, floral and botanical designs, and belief-related motifs. Among these, the Naga motif stands out as a symbol of power, protection, and fertility. 2. The knowledge gained from the study was synthesized as inspiration for creating a Contemporary Craft Lantern that reflects the Tai Lue belief in “weaving Tung (sacred lanterns) as offerings to temples,” symbolizing devotion to Buddhism. The creative process integrates natural materials with contemporary technology, using cotton yarns and characteristic Tai Lue colors in combination with metal structures and laser-cut techniques to achieve a three-dimensional illuminated aesthetic. The two-dimensional Naga motif from traditional textiles was reinterpreted into layered geometric forms, symbolizing the transcendence of faith from the material to the spiritual realm. The resulting artwork demonstrates a harmonious integration of belief, light, and material, embodying both aesthetic and cultural values. It highlights the potential of Tai Lue weaving wisdom to inspire contemporary craft design that remains deeply rooted in its cultural origins while embracing modernity. This creation is part of the continuation of the doctoral dissertation titled “Tai Lue Woven Textiles: Conveying Faith through Contemporary Art.” The research was supported by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) under the Graduate Researcher Development Grant, fiscal year 2022. The author gratefully acknowledges the NRCT for funding this study to its successful completion.