Reporters: Dr. Jaray Suwannachart, Asst.Prof.Dr. Tachaya Sangkakool, Asst.Prof.Surawat Moogem, Tussawan Thong-on, Natrada Boonthad and Natpakal Poolperm
Evidence Date: August 23–September 24, 2024
Related SDGs:
Related Indicators: 11.2.5 11.2.6
Details: Supporting details and pictures
The Faculty of Architecture, RUTS, led by Dr. Ruenruetai Klakhang and Lecturer Saroj Meepuakmak, together with students from the Visual Arts Program, collaborated with local craftsmen and residents of Pak Phanang to design and decorate a ceremonial boat (Rua Phra Lak) for the 2024 Royal Kathina Procession at Wat Thai Mangkalaram, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.
This collaborative effort resulted in a magnificent, creatively designed boat that beautifully integrated traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistic expression. The boat represented the unity of art, religion, and community, and became a symbol of pride for local residents.
At the 2024 Annual Royal Kathina Boat Procession Competition, the boat from Wat Thai Mangkalaram won First Prize for Creative Design, receiving the Royal Trophy graciously bestowed by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. This prestigious recognition celebrated the team’s innovation, cultural sensitivity, and dedication to preserving Thai traditions through artistic collaboration.
The project exemplified how academic–community partnerships can revitalize and sustain local art forms. Through joint design, local knowledge sharing, and artistic innovation, students and faculty members helped strengthen cultural continuity, community engagement, and environmental appreciation in the Pak Phanang coastal area.
This initiative demonstrates how design education and community collaboration can play a vital role in safeguarding Thailand’s living heritage. By integrating academic knowledge with local wisdom, the Faculty of Architecture, RUTS helped preserve, reinterpret, and promote southern cultural traditions in a modern yet respectful way. The project not only fostered creativity and cultural pride among students and local artisans but also strengthened Songkhla and Nakhon Si Thammarat’s position as cultural and creative cities in the southern region of Thailand.
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