Asst. Prof. Dr. I-na Phuyuthanon
Abstract :
The term “Talakong” refers to a special set of sarongs that hold deep meaning within Islam, particularly in understanding the role of women and their connection to Allah. These sarongs are not just clothing but symbols of faith and a way to seek blessings. They are adorned with intricate patterns that tell stories of the Patani region in Thailand and the artist’s family’s history there. The sarongs also represent the artist’s personal journey as a woman, especially her grief over losing her father during events in the southern border provinces. Through the practice of “du’a,” or supplication, Muslims seek solace and guidance from Allah, which is an essential ritual in Islam. The creation of these sarongs reflects the diverse aspects of Islamic culture and history, including the role of women in various aspects of life such as warfare, politics, childbirth, and family support. It also explores the connection between migration and the spread of Islam to the artist’s homeland. Overall, the sarongs serve as a medium to convey stories, traditions, and beliefs, while also honoring the resilience and agency of women in Muslim communities.
Objectives :
The objective:
1. To study and explore the history of Islam, tracing its evolution and connections from its origins to the context of the Patani region, and to analyze the cultural norms and religious practices of Islam through creative works.
2. To create contemporary fabric patterns through women’s sarongs and to generate visual art to reflect the social dimension of the southern border provinces of Thailand through the sarong ensemble.
Conceptual Framework :
The use of “talakobg” serves as a symbol drawn from the daily lives of Muslim women who follow Islam, particularly in their commitment to the five daily prayers. This practice reflects their devotion to the one God.
By bringing everyday experiences to life through personal journeys, there’s a parallel to exploring past events and reflecting on the present to shape a better future for humanity. This exploration involves both insiders and outsiders, with insiders facing risks while outsiders interpret meanings for insiders. This interconnectedness within the global community underscores the importance of using video as a medium to foster new experiences and insights for local communities, rather than solely relying on past experiences for understanding.
The narrative also reflects on Islam’s journey from its origins, both physically and spiritually, passed down through generations, prompting reflection on the existence of life itself. These mechanisms are crucial for questioning societal relationships among humans, portrayed through reflective video art that utilizes sound to guide various unfolding narratives.
Process / Methodology :
1. Data Compilation: Collect and organize information from primary documents.
2. Field Investigation: Conduct comprehensive research in the southern border provinces.
3. Data Analysis: Evaluate findings to derive insights and conclusions.
4. Pattern Development:Design intricate sarong patterns reflective of cultural nuances.
5. Video Production: Craft compelling visual narratives featuring talakong as a central motif.
6. Expert Review: Solicit feedback and validation from domain experts and collaborating artists.
7. Exhibition Coordination: Plan and execute public exhibitions to showcase the artistic endeavor.
Techniques and Materials :
Video Art and Mixed Media Art
Result / Conclusion :
The video art piece “Talang” seeks to emphasize the importance of Muslim women and their adherence to Islam. It explores the use of “talang” in the “lamat” ceremony, where supplication and seeking blessings from God occur. Through this, it delves into the history of Muslims in Thailand’s southern border provinces, showcasing how Islamic principles endure across time and regions.
The piece aims to shed light on the atrocities committed by humans for their own gain, using “talang” as a lens to examine past events and changes within the Muslim community’s beliefs and way of life. The central motif of “talang” is woven throughout the narrative by synthesizing patterns from various sources, including architecture, clothing, household items, and ornaments, spanning from the original Malayu Patani region to the present southern border provinces.
Through on-site exploration, observation, and interviews, the artistic process focuses on women adorned in “talang” garments, embellished with bullets symbolizing unknown usage. The patterns drawn on each bullet represent synthesis across significant areas of the southern border provinces, linked to historical migrations and beliefs.
Overall, “Talang” prompts viewers to question contemporary society about ongoing conflicts, even as time progresses into the future.
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