Picture Book in Thai Art Design for Youth

Abstract

The purpose of “Picture Book in Thai Art Design for Youth” is to summarize the results of a study on the design of nonfiction book illustrations in historical content and Thai wisdom for young readers. Research methodology is as followed 1) collected information from literature reviews of history textbooks for primary and secondary school students, Thai Encyclopedia for Youth, nonfiction books for youth in Thai and English, and information on children’s book design. 2) A field survey, including documents of fine arts exhibited in various national museums and significant ancient sites. 3) Creates the content and determines the readers: upper elementary to middle school, aged 6-12 years old and 12-14 years old. 4) Design Process.
The results are summarized in 4 prototype books; 1) Stone Sanctuaries in Thailand, 2) Sangkhalok Sukhothai, 3) Sriwichai Amulet, and 4) Thai jewelry, which is related to historical study methods, Thai national history, and local wisdom. The design approach from the analysis of identity and visual elements of artifacts to communicate shape and form. The content also focus on creation of ancient works of art to create an imaginary memory which forms and decoration are explore. Selection of color scheme reflects the nature of sandstone, clay, ceramic, and gems stones, which is a learning method that corresponds to the information on art history. In addition, the learning activities insert in the book encourage children to ask questions and find answers with their own experience. Readers will learn how to build stone temples and explore paper accessories to understand the size and proportion. The unique manufacturing process of Sangkhalok and the kilns of Sukhothai as well as amulets from religious beliefs
illustrate. The nonfiction book for young readers created in this project can develop learning materials for students in many topics. Moreover, further study can be collected from a group of readers to create other content and design in the future.