A CASE STUDY ON LOW-RELIEF SCULPTURES DECORATING THE CLOISTER OF THE ORDINATION HALL AT WAT PHO (WAT PHRA CHETUPHON VIMOLMANGKLARAM RAJWARARAMAHAVIHARN), REIMAGINED AS SCULPTURES OF LIGHT AND SHADOW

Abstract

This research aims to: The creation of original bas-relief sculptures utilizing modeling, mold-making, and fiberglass mixed with sand casting techniques, based on scenes from the Ramakien narrative. The works are inspired by the bas-relief sculptures from Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm, particularly Panel No. 126 (Hanuman Captures Virunchamuk) and Panel No. 38 (The Demon Army Puts Hanuman in a Mortar and Pounds Him). research follows four steps: 1.) Study, research, and data collection 2.) Creation of the art thesis work and development of instructional media 3.) Analysis and conclusion 4.) Presentation of the creative work and instructional media 1.The study of the history and artistic styles of the Ramayana murals at Wat Phra That Phanom, particularly panels 126 and 38, reveals distinctive artistic features that reflect Thai artistic traditions. These murals serve as visual narratives conveying moral and cultural values, illustrating the uniqueness of local artistry. 2. The creation of low-relief sculptures based on these murals resulted in two completed works, each measuring 90 cm in length and 2 cm in thickness. 2.1 The sculpture inspired by Panel 126 (Story of Hanuman’s Bravery) was created using a sculpting technique combined with shading to enhance dimensionality, making it suitable for adaptation. 2.2 The sculpture inspired by Panel 38 (Story of Phra Phalai’s Journey to Lanka) was crafted using similar methods, emphasizing movement and dynamism through line work and form. 3 The sculptures were evaluated and refined based on expert critique, leading to improved production techniques and considerations for potential applications in architectural and decorative contexts.