From Observation to Creation: Exploring Multi-Layered Cultural Narratives in Bangkok Old Town through Participatory Artistic Practices

Background and Aim: This study explores the transformation of Bangkok's old town into a creative hub through participatory artistic practices. It examines the evolution of the creator’s role from a passive observer to an active contributor, integrating personal experiences and cultural observations into multi-material textile artworks. The research aims to demonstrate how blending traditional and contemporary perspectives can revitalize overlooked cultural resources. Materials and Methods: Using long-term ethnographic methods, the study employs a dual-scale framework that combines temporal timelines with geographical mapping based on the Chao Phraya River. It collects and translates personal social media posts into artistic elements, incorporating fabrics and recycled materials to connect personal memory with local cultural identity. Results: The final assemblages reflect Bangkok’s old town’s unique heritage as a creative district, illustrating how participatory artistic practices can capture cultural and spatial dynamics. By adopting this approach, we can offer a replicable model for long-term residents and encourage sustained engagement to integrate more artistic practices into the local context, fostering deeper connections between art and place. The research demonstrates how traditional folk traditions and contemporary creative expressions can be merged to foster cultural revitalization. Conclusion: By leveraging Thailand's soft power attributes—diversity, flexibility, and informality—the study highlights the potential for cultural and creative industries to foster sustainable development. It underscores the importance of combining cultural capital with individual creativity to enhance economic value and social cohesion. This research contributes to the discourse on cultural preservation, creative innovation, and their role in building resilient and vibrant communities.