Development of the High Relief Metal Sculpture Creation in Lanna

Abstract

This academic article focuses on the developmental knowledge of the high relief metal sculpture which is Lanna unique technique. The previous background to present works is underneath the context of contemporary art and culture. The data are collected from religious objects and places such temples and museums, the works belonged by the artists of Wualai and Nantaram villages, Mueng district, Chiang Mai province. These are focused on the patterns, techniques, new dimensions of material science, the factors of development in contemporary works and value of works. The development and identity of the metal sculpture that is created by the cultural mixture of multi ethnicity in Lanna, since King Kawila reigned until present. These are the positive factors that create the power to drive the high relief metal sculpture, which has more freedom to design.  Both religious objects, universal items and souvenirs. Although, the technique and material are adjusted and changed to be more modern, the identity of original technique still be conserved. Anyway, the equipment usage for convenience at present reduces the limitations, that is good such reducing production to respond to the customer needs. Because of these factors, new artists can create their unique works as well. Furthermore, the artist skill  development is adjusted and changed from the ideal concept to being more practical and trying to make them more absolute, perfectly practical and high creation. Then, these are back to the ideal thar let some works are almost
abstract. However, the adjustment and changing materials, patterns and techniques do not affect the value of pattern that can reflect the identity of ethnic groups and the value of philosophy and concept which can be reflected through the high relief metal sculpture still has appeared since the previous time