The Design of "Datton Sanla" Ceramic Miniatures Inspired By Cultural Wisdom

Abstract

This article is to explain the creative process of ceramic product design inspired by the traditional cultural wisdom.  The process started from finding the inspiration in designing, access methods to creative ideas in order to find the possible answers, as well as the creative use of materials in order to produce the outputs that can communicate the efficient design framework. The Thailand souvenir product design inspired by the traditional Thai massage was studied in this case; the output entitled "Datton Sanla" can reflect Thai culture and is the design of souvenirs interconnected with the Thai traditional massage using the delicate artistic Thai tracery and the unique features of the ceramic materials as the strength of the products. This design won the 2015 Cultural and Wisdom Talent, held by the Bureau of Supporting Industries Development under the Department of Industrial Promotion, Ministry of Industry. Furthermore, this case study is interesting in terms of the interpretation of the concrete inspiration (the acts of massage) combining with the abstraction (relaxing feeling after receiving a massage). The interpretation and representation are merged with the smell of Thai aromatherapy that helps about relaxation by feeling the odor auditory nerves in the souvenir products. Due to that ceramics are qualified to absorb liquids and the variety of their usable shapes, the souvenir products "Datton Sanla" are classified as the souvenirs of Thailand. The Thai identity these ceramics have can help expand the wisdom of Thai traditional massage and can be used for house decoration that give pleasing scents and create a relaxing atmosphere. With the integration of ideas from the design process, the output can convey the concepts and inspiration of traditional wisdom into a tangible success.