The article discusses the controversy surrounding the demolition of clay art at Wat Maha That in Phetchaburi and reflects on the deep connection between art and literature, particularly concerning Thai epic narratives. The author mentions learning from Professor Lom Pengkaew about classical literature and its ties to artistic representation, especially concerning figures like giants and monkeys from the Ramayana.
Phetchaburi artists possess an intricate understanding of these literary characters, including how to depict their features accurately, such as the requirement for certain types of teeth for different characters. The sharpness and length of the teeth symbolize power, with different characters possessing distinct attributes that define their roles in the stories.
The article also delves into the classification of these characters based on their crowns, facial features, and weapons, discussing specific giants like Guraepan, who has a distinctive sharp mouth, indicating his lineage and connection to the larger narratives.
The author further explores cultural references involving crabs in literature and songs, illustrating how deeply woven these elements are within Thai culture and art. There are anecdotes about how educators used live crabs for art practice, showcasing the hands-on approach to understanding cultural narratives in artistic expressions.
One particular story highlights the connection between giants and crabs in the context of the Ramayana, where a giant named Totsakan initially attempts to hide his feelings of shame and employs a crab to do so, creating a unique storytelling thread that underlines the collaborative relationship between art and written forms.
In concluding remarks, the author reflects on the significance of acknowledging cultural history and warns of an impending loss of identity if one forgets the rich traditions that have shaped the artistic landscape. There’s an underlying message to be mindful of one’s actions and the relevance of historical context in present-day practices.
กิเลน ประลองเชิง
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
