DEC Journal : Art and Design

Characteristics of Modern Japanese Graphic Design in 1950s–1960s

Jirayu Pongvarut — 2025-11-24

This research investigates the distinctive characteristics of Japanese graphic design during the 1950s–1960s by examining the surrounding contexts that supported identity formation and exploring how designers incorporated elements of traditional art into their design processes. The study employs historical research methods, focusing on social and economic conditions, the development of related institutions, printing technologies, and the production of printed media, alongside a comparative visual analysis of modern graphic works and traditional Japanese painting and printmaking. The findings reveal that Japanese graphic designers of the time sought to establish their own identity by drawing from traditional art through six key approaches: (1) employing empty space as the core of the composition, with forms merely indicating space; (2) using flat colors without shading, a quality associated with Japanese art in the eyes of the West since the late 19^th century; (3) applying asymmetrical balance to reflect the natural concept of imperfection; (4) capturing specific moments through the cropping of images, which produced effects distinct from Western compositional norms; (5) integrating image and text so that text functioned more as visual elements than as linguistic content; and (6) simplifying forms into powerful symbols using geometry, which was popular at the time. These approaches demonstrate the effort to create a modern Japanese graphic design language rooted deeply in traditional art.

Studying Teochew Chinese Identity in Thailand for Product Design and Packaging of Auspicious Snacks, a Case Study of Saengthong Dessert Shop

Seksan Saengthong — 2025-11-24

This research aimed to 1) Study the identity of Teochew Chinese in Thailand, 2) To design products and packaging of auspicious desserts, a case study of Saengthong Dessert Shop 3) To assess consumer satisfaction towards products and packaging of auspicious desserts, a case study of Saengthong Dessert Shop. The research methods were problem analysis, research instruments creation, data collection, data analysis, and research conclusions. It was found that auspicious Chinese desserts still play an important role in the rituals of Thai-Chinese people. Currently, there are 7 popular types: mooncakes, Chinese steamed cakes, Chinese steamed buns, steamed buns, egg cakes, bean cakes/sesame cakes, and red auspicious candy. The analysis results showed that “mooncakes” were the most popular and had high potential for value-added through packaging. The design combined Teochew identity, such as auspicious patterns, red-gold, historical stories, and culture, adhering to the concept of Somchana Kangwarnjit, emphasizing the transmission of Teochew cultural identity through 8 elements, such as red-gold, dragon patterns and Chinese characters, the words “潮” (Cháo), “王” (wáng), “興” (xìng), The octagonal shape represents good fortune, and premium materials are used to create a contemporary emotional and visual experience. Three design concepts were presented and evaluated by a panel of experts. The results showed that Design 1, which uses an octagonal shape, received the highest score (mean 4.79, S.D. 0.29), standing out for its graphics, creativity, and profound interpretation of Chinese culture that is different from general packaging. From the evaluation of the satisfaction of 80 consumers of small auspicious desserts in Yaowarat area, it was found that they were at the highest level of satisfaction (mean = 4.68, S.D. = 0.46). The top 3 satisfaction levels were: 1) beauty, 2) utility, 3) appropriate materials.

An Integrative Approach to Arts and Experiential Learning in Tourist Attractions of Nakhon Sawan Province

Sophon Chailuksakul — 2025-11-24

This study examines the integration of artistic elements and experiential learning at tourist attractions in Nakhon Sawan Province, a strategically significant area known as the "Gateway to the North" and a prominent hub for the fusion of Thai, Chinese, and Hindu cultures. The research aims to 1) study the state and multicultural aspects of art in Nakhon Sawan's tourist attractions and 2) propose an integrative approach to arts and experiential learning based on these attractions. This qualitative research was conducted at seven key sites: Wat Khiriwong, Sawan Park, Ganesha Park, Chao Pho Chao Mae Na Pha Shrine, Pasan, Street Art, and Koh Yuan. Data collection instruments included field observations, in-depth interviews with a total of 30 tourists, community members, and experts, and an analysis of relevant documents. The findings reveal that each attraction possesses artistic elements that significantly reflect a multicultural identity, such as the architecture and murals blending Thai-Indian art influences at Wat Khiriwong, the Chinese-style dragon sculptures and landscape architecture in Sawan Park, and contemporary art depicting community life through Street Art. Based on a synthesis of the data, this study proposes guidelines for designing context-specific experiential learning activities, such as art practice workshops (e.g., creating replica murals at Wat Khiriwong), cultural storytelling through the dragon sculptures at Sawan Park, and participatory exhibitions at Pasan. These guidelines emphasize community involvement to foster sustainability. This research, therefore, offers a practical model that can be adapted to enhance educational value and promote long-term cultural tourism.

Designing Promotional Media and Art Activities to Promote Cultural Learning in Lamphaya Community, Nakhon Pathom Province

Patiphan Charoensuk — 2025-11-24

Lumphaya is a historically significant trading community that has declined in recent years. Many younger community members are unaware of its cultural background, highlighting the need to promote cultural preservation. This research aimed to: 1) explore the identity of the Lumphaya community; 2) design art-based activities to communicate cultural knowledge to both locals and tourists; and 3) study the outcomes of these activities. The research involved purposive sampling (the abbot and museum staff) for interviews, and accidental sampling for surveys and activity participation. A total of 77 participants were included: 43 respondents to the activity design questionnaire and 32 activity participants. The research tools consisted of: 1) interview guidelines for activity design; 2) a questionnaire on activity design; and 3) a satisfaction evaluation form. Qualitative data were analyzed descriptively, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean scores).

Findings revealed 1. Two key aspects of community identity: 1) Historical significance, represented by the community museum that houses artifacts reflecting local ways of life; 2) Cultural identity as a riverside community with Chinese and Mon ethnic groups engaged in agriculture and trade. 2. Four suitable formats of promotional media and activities were developed: 1) Promotional and directional signage 2) Informational signs for key artifacts and map 3) Lumphaya Story booklet 4) Stamp Stories postcard printmaking kit. 3. Overall satisfaction was rated as good, with the highest mean score for the informational signage ( = 4.41). For further development, the media and activities can be adapted as educational tools in schools to promote cultural appreciation and can also be applied in other communities.

Wattana-Atham (Cultural Injustice) Conceptual Art and Local Development: A Case Study of Phrae Hae Raberd

Chestha Suwannasa — 2025-11-24

This article examines the discourse of “Phrae Hae Raberd” as a discursive tool that suppresses and distorts local identity through the reproduction of negative cultural stereotypes within Thai society. The analysis is framed by the newly proposed concept of “Wattanatham” (Cultural Injustice), which serves to explain the mechanisms of cultural inequality embedded within centralized power structures and dominant discourses. This study explores the intersection between discourse and symbolic domination, and demonstrates how Conceptual Art can act as a critical mechanism for resisting oppression and revitalizing community identity.

The case study of the “Hae Raberd Café” in Phrae province is analyzed as a community art space that employs creative cultural processes and artistic interventions to challenge negative stereotypes, foster public dialogue, and generate shared learning between locals and broader audiences. This process ultimately contributes to sustainable local development by restoring pride in collective identity.

The findings suggest that both the concept of Cultural Injustice and Conceptual Art offer powerful theoretical and practical tools for analyzing, contesting, and transforming the cultural hegemony that shapes social perception in Thailand.

Art activity 'Colors of My Home' for early childhood development

Silalai Phadboke — 2025-11-24

Artistic activities are a significant tool for fostering the development of young children, particularly in the emotional and social domains. Art provides a unique opportunity for children to engage in free self-expression, unconstrained by adult-imposed rules. Consequently, children's drawings serve as a "window" into their inner world, offering insights into their feelings, thoughts, and individual personalities. Furthermore, the colors selected by a child can reflect their emotional state and be utilized as a psychological instrument for effective learning and development. Therefore, art activities for children are not merely about producing a final product; they represent a comprehensive learning process that promotes holistic development, encompassing physical, cognitive, emotional, and social dimensions.

This study’s methodology involved collecting and comparing of multiple child development theories, including Play-Based Learning Theory, Psychoanalytic Theory, and the Theory of Multiple Intelligences. This theoretical synthesis informed the design of the theme "The Colors of My Home" for an action research project. The data derived from the activities were analyzed, with the findings summarized and discussed academically. A key observation is that art, as a learning activity for young children, reflects their inner dimensions and serves as an effective integrative tool for holistic development. The results indicate that art not only enhances creativity but also provides a crucial foundation for balanced emotional, social, and cognitive learning during this most critical stage of life.

Survival Alternatives: Naturally derived Materials for Fashion and Lifestyle Products

Chisa Suwannawin — 2025-11-24

This academic article aims to explore approaches for utilizing natural alternative materials in the development of fashion and lifestyle products in order to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainability. The fashion industry is currently facing challenges related to unsustainable resource use, leading to the growing importance of natural materials such as pineapple fiber, hemp, sugarcane, mycelium, and spider silk proteins. These materials are biodegradable, capable of replacing synthetic fibers or animal leather, and suitable for creating environmentally friendly products. A review of the literature reveals key commonalities: reducing environmental impacts, adding economic value through unique identity, and meeting the expectations of new-generation consumers who value sustainability. Furthermore, these materials can be applied across diverse sectors, from clothing, footwear, and bags to home and living products such as furniture, curtains, and décor. This indicates that natural alternatives are not merely substitutes but opportunities to create new value and to advance the overall fashion industry. Such trends align with the concepts of Circular Fashion and Slow Fashion, which emphasize longevity, repair, recycling, and resource circulation to achieve systemic sustainability. The author concludes that sustainability has become a strategic imperative for the fashion industry, and the future of fashion and lifestyle products requires collaboration among designers, scientists, and entrepreneurs to integrate material science, technology, and creative design. This integration is vital for producing fashion innovations that embody quality, aesthetics, and genuine responsibility toward society and the environment.