The The Study of “Hoop Taem” Esan Mural Paintings for Graphic and Illustration Designs for Cultural Art Learning Kits for Youth

Abstract

This evaluative research aims to 1) study and analyze the identity patterns of Hoop Taem mural paintings in Khon Kaen Province; 2) examine the design process based on the identity of Hoop Taem mural paintings in Khon Kaen and 3) develop graphic and illustration designs derived from the identity of Hoop Taem mural paintings in Khon Kaen for a local cultural learning package for youth. This research used research and development (R&D) methods. The sample group were 30 youths aged 18–24 in Khon Kaen Province. The research instruments consisted of a data and image recording form for Hoop Taem characteristics in Khon Kaen, expert interview forms, and a youth opinion survey on graphic and illustration design. The quantitative data were analyzed by content analysis. The results of this research showed that 1) 4 Hoop Taem sites studied are folk murals characterized by free and simple drawing styles with distinctive forms that reflect local identity. The literary content can be categorized into 3 groups: 1) religious stories, such as the Life of the Buddha, Traiphum, and the Vessantara Jataka; 2) local literature,and 3) Kak images, which depict the traditional way of life of people in the Isan region in the past. 2) Graphic and illustration design, the process consisted of 3 stages: 1) cultural decoding 2) cultural analysis and 3) design and utilization. This process aims to promote youth learning through visual and graphic communication, enabling them to effectively access and understand cultural identity. 3)The developed graphic and illustration styles classify characters into 4 groups: characters from the Sangsinchai, characters from the Vessantara Jataka, characters representing Isan daily life, and groups of plants and decorative motifs. The visual elements developed from this study can be applied as media in local cultural learning packages to enhance learning and foster awareness of the value of local cultural heritage among youth.