Sculpture as a Narrative in the Ramayana

Abstract

Research Objectives 1)To study the history, content, and stylistic characteristics of "Phap Jap Ramakien" (scene-capturing imagery from the Ramakien epic) as depicted in traditional mural paintings. 2)To create bas-relief sculptures inspired by "Phap Jap Ramakien" by analyzing, interpreting, and synthesizing the narrative through the researcher’s perspective. The creation process involves sculptural techniques in bas-relief, including mold-making with silicone rubber, casting with resin mixed with fiberglass, and surface finishing with metallic imitation colors. 3) To develop instructional media in the form of bas-relief sculptures based on scenes from the Ramakien epic. The presentation reflects the researcher’s viewpoint through the sculptural method of bas-relief using silicone rubber molds, resin mixed with fiberglass for casting, and metallic imitation coloring. This educational media is intended for use in teaching Thai art at the upper secondary and vocational education levels. Research Process consists of four stages as follows 1 ) Studying, researching, and gathering relevant information. 2) Creation of the Art Education Thesis and producing the creative artwork in accordance with the conceptual framework and sculptural methodology. 3) Analysis and summarizing the findings. 4) Presentation of the Creative Work and Instructional Media Presenting the completed artistic creations and instructional media developed from the research for educational purposes. The study found that 1) The study of content related to the creation of bas-relief sculptures based on "Phap Jap" (scene-capturing imagery) from the Ramakien epic focused on two specific episodes: Hanuman’s battle with Machanu and Hanuman’s courtship of Suvannamaccha. These narratives were studied and reinterpreted into bas-relief sculptures to reflect moral values through the creation of Thai artistic expressions. 2) The creative outcomes consist of two bas-relief sculptures inspired by "Phap Jap" (scene-capturing imagery) from the Ramakien epic, as follows: 2.1 Hanuman’s Battle with Machanu A bas-relief sculpture with a diameter of 60 centimeters, created through sculpting and moldmaking using natural rubber, and cast in fiberglass material. 2.2 Hanuman’s Courtship of Suvannamaccha A bas-relief sculpture with a diameter of 90 centimeters, created through sculpting and silicone mold-making, and cast in fiberglass material. 3) Designing and producing instructional media on the topic of silicone mold-making procedures.