Integrating holistic art therapy to develop sustainable quality of life of the Nawat Withi Community, Ban Pa Tan, Buak Khang Subdistrict, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This research study employs the concept of art therapy, a healing practice that utilizes artistic activities as a medium for individuals to constructively manage their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Art therapy is suitable for all ages and individuals with physical or mental disabilities, aiming to enhance life skills and promote mental well-being, leading to a happier and more balanced
life. This research encompasses three objectives: 1) To examine the development model of community products by applying local wisdom of Pa Pa Tal Village, Chiang Mai Province, integrated with a holistic art therapy approach.
2) To investigate the needs of community product producers in Pa Pa Tal Village, Chiang Mai Province, in terms of enhancing their artistic skills for community product creation and 3) To explore the knowledge dissemination model of local wisdom holders who produce community products in Pa Pa Tal Village, Chiang Mai Province. This qualitative research involves a
target group consisting of local wisdom teachers, village elders, and senior citizens from the Nawattana Witthi Pa Pa Tal community, Tambon Buak Khang, Amphoe Sankampaeng, Chiang Mai Province. The findings reveal the following:  1. Community Product Development Model: The integration of local wisdom from Pa Pa Tal Village, Chiang Mai Province, with a holistic art therapy approach has led to the design of new community products, including: Lanna-style oil-on-water lanterns, Painted Lanna-style lanterns, Lanna-style paper cutting art hangings and Lanna-style stencil-cut hangings 2. Needs of Community Product Producers: The study identifies the needs of community product producers in Pa Pa Tal Village, Chiang Mai Province, in enhancing their artistic skills for community product creation: 1) Need to Learn New Design Techniques: Producers desire to learn new design techniques to enhance the beauty and modernity of their products. 2) Need to Learn the Use of Diverse Colors and Materials: Producers seek to learn the application of diverse colors and materials to add variety and visual appeal to their products and 3) Need to Learn the Integration of Lanna Art with Modern Art: Producers aspire to
learn how to integrate Lanna art with modern art to create unique and distinctive products.  3. Knowledge Dissemination Model: The knowledge dissemination model employed by local wisdom holders in Pa Pa Tal Village, Chiang Mai Province, encompasses: Knowledge Transfer: Direct transmission of knowledge from experienced individuals to novices. Production Demonstrations: Practical demonstrations of product creation techniques. Knowledge Dissemination through Media: Utilization of various media channels, such as manuals, videos, and online resources, to share knowledge. Establishment of Learning Centers: Creation of dedicated spaces for knowledge sharing and skills development. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of brand building, ìPa Pa Tal
Lanterns and Hangings,î to establish a unique identity for the products. Effective marketing strategies are also emphasized to promote the products through various channels, aligning with contemporary trends.