Fabric Design and Development for Casual Wear: Inspiration from Watphradhatphasornkaew Decorative Arts

Abstract

For this study of the design and development of fabric patterns for casual wear inspired by the decorative arts at WatPhraDhatPhasornkaew, the researcher has studied beautiful patterns, color schemes, techniques and decorative materials at the temple which are in a modern art style with a Ratanakosin Era uniqueness that is aesthetically and physically valuable. The objectives of this research were; 1) to study the patterns of design and color in the decorative arts of WatPhraDhatPhasornkaew, Phetchabun, to apply in the design and development of new patterns, and 2) study the different types of Thai fabric and production techniques that are appropriate for the designs. This qualitative research covered the study of documents and information relating to the topic; a field trip to collect information about the decorative techniques at WatPhraDhatPhasornkaew; site visits to fabric producers to check whether the newly developed patterns and types of fabric matched, and interviews with not fewer than 30 target users including working males and females in the private and government sectors in the Bangkok area. The objective was to find a direction in designing and developing fabric patterns to suit the target users and daily usage. The research found that the decorative techniques at WatPhraDhatPhasornkaew had a variety of details including color schemes, patterns and material mixes created by colored tiles, Bencharong ware, pearl, beads, glass, jewelry, valuable items and colorful ceramic ware which created beautiful patterns. Moreover, dharma teachings and stories about the way of the world were narrated through the works of fine arts and sculpture as created by the artists’ ideas. The researcher took inspiration from the designs, textures and color schemes of this decoration in designing and developing contemporary fabric patterns with printing techniques on woven fabric made from natural fibers that were easy to care for and suitable as casual wear for daily usage. Since WatPhraDhatPhasornkaew was one central form of religious architecture at the heart of Thai Buddhism, this research will greatly help preserve and develop these Ratanakosin Era works of art and culture to pass on to future generations.