PHI TA KHON: FROM FOLK ARTS TO THE CREATIVE ARTS IN DAN SAI DISTRICT'S CULTURAL AREA, LOEI PROVINCE

Abstract

This article aimed to study the transformation of Phi Ta Khon from folk art to creative art in Dan Sai District’s cultural area, Loei Province. The study revealed that Phi Ta Knon, formerly known as Phi Tam Khon (ghost following people), was a part of Bun Luang, a Buddhist merit-making holiday. The Phi Ta Khon ascribed a story to when Phra Vessantara decided to go back to the town. However, the forest spirits who used to serve him were sad and nostalgic. Forest spirits, therefore, disguised themselves with the villagers to send Phra Vessantara along with the parades and processions through the town. They had found something that could be used to conceal one's face so as not to frighten those who saw it. Originally, Phi Ta Khon's ghostly mask and costume were made with accessible materials that were easy to find in the community. Nowadays, Phi Ta Khon is changed into a new style that creates a sense of grandeur and splendor by using modern materials with modern patterns, colors, and techniques for blending. The Phi Ta Khon-making concept is clearly defined, so the image of Phi Ta Khon becomes more fantasy. The factors that caused the change in Phi Ta Khon were more creative artistic skills in the community, art and cultural tourism management trends, advanced design technology, tourists’ behavior toward arts and culture recognition, drawing and coloring contests, and the continuously driving tourism activities by the government sector.