THAI SONG DAM TEXTILES: PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT BASED ON THE CREATIVE ECONOMY BY ADOPTING THE CONCEPT OF POSTMODERNISM

Abstract

The objective of this research is to develop Thai Song Dam products for the creative economy based on the concept of post-modernism. This qualitative research focuses on the data gathered from five western provinces of Thailand. Three groups provided data for the investigation: key informants, casual informants and general informants. According to the research findings, the wisdom of textile weaving used among Thai Song Dam people in the west of Thailand is directly influenced by diverse cultures of ancestors from Phetchaburi province. Presently, problems related to Thai Song Dam textile production are a lack of inheritors in practical hand-embroidery skills, fabric patching, and sewing. In addition, having community leaders who are too conservative is one of the factors that disallows exposure, and changes of lifestyle among Thai Song Dam people. Product development in the creative economy by adopting the concept of postmodernism is a new method to establish uniqueness by focusing on multipurpose usage. The created products can be utilized by all age groups and genders. Natural materials found within the community are used in the product creation by focusing on the characteristics of conflict or contrast. By maintaining the traditional identity of Thai Song Dam textiles, the new products’ styles and uses should be acceptable among Thai Song Dam people and still remain traditional. Additionally, the concept of development could be advanced by establishing systematic production standards. Significantly, the cooperation of product makers, funding sources, and public relations are also major factors.