Dr. Susan Conway, currently a research associate at the Institute of Development Studies, Sussex University, gave three talks and led two excursions over the course of eight days in early February. On Monday, 9 February, she gave an overview of the Lan Na Tai belief system and how it is reflected in the material culture of the Lan Na people. On Wednesday, 11 February, she gave more detailed information about how Lan Na beliefs and culture are reflected in temple mural paintings.
This was followed by an excursion to Wat Buak Krok, which is renowned for its many beautiful and well preserved mural paintings. The following Monday, 16 February, Dr. Conway gave a fascinating lecture about Lan Na Tai textiles including the time consuming and creative process by which they are made. Participants then took a short ride to the home of Ajarn Vithi Phaichphant, founder and former professor at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University, where they were privileged to view Aj. Vithi’s extensive collection of exquisite Lan Na Tai textiles.
Susan’s three talks and the two excursions received glowing reviews by the participants. Everyone appreciated the new knowledge conveyed and the opportunity to see examples of the arts of mural painting and textile making in person.
