Development of Automaton Wooden Figures from Industrial Wood Scraps to Enhance the Artistic Heritage of the Naga Bridge

Abstract

The research titled "Development of Automaton Wooden Figures from Industrial Wood Scraps to Enhance the Artistic Heritage of the Naga Bridge at Phanom Rung Stone Castle" has two main objectives: 1) to gather knowledge on local wood processing and apply it to the design of automaton wooden figures that integrate the artistic elements of Phanom Rung Stone Castle, and 2) to disseminate knowledge on the design and development of automaton wooden figures to the Ban Nong Tad community enterprise group in Mueang District, Buriram Province. The research utilized a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from documents, surveying the needs and problems of the community enterprise group, and synthesizing prototype works in collaboration with local woodworking experts, product design specialists, Phanom Rung art experts, and souvenir market specialists.

               The findings indicate that local woodworkers possess knowledge passed down from local wood producers, but lack the skills to manage wood scraps and develop products that stand out in the market. The researchers developed a "Naga" wooden figure, applying the principles of automaton to create a self-moving puppet. This product not only makes use of leftover wood but also distinctly reflects local identity and offers marketable potential. The product development process consisted of three main steps: 1) designing with a focus on proportion and mechanism, 2) selecting suitable wood materials, and 3) assembling the parts with specialized skills. Additionally, a skill-training seminar for the community showed that participants were interested in learning how to create automaton wooden figures, though their knowledge in this area remained limited. The research suggests focusing on skill development, resource and technology support, and market expansion to preserve and sustainably develop local art.