The Pathway to Art Toy Creation as a Career Project
Fiscal Year 2024
In the modern era, Art Toy has gained widespread popularity in the fields of art and design. It is not only a form of art that combines creativity with unique designs but also plays a significant role in the economic and cultural sectors. Art Toy has become one of the artistic creations that bridges contemporary art with the creative industries, generating added value for both creators and communities. Moreover, Art Toy reflects cultural diversity and the unique identities of its creators through designs that tell stories and establish connections with consumers.
Art Toy is also a vital tool in elevating the accessibility of art to broader audiences. It effectively connects the world of art with everyday consumers, making it more relatable and approachable. The flexibility of Art Toy design allows creators to experiment with various techniques and materials, fostering innovation in production processes and opening new business opportunities for designers. Additionally, Art Toy has the potential to build strong brand identities and relationships with buyers, especially in a global market where creative products are increasingly in demand. It offers artists and designers a pathway to stable careers and sustainable income.
Recognizing these significant opportunities, the Creative Painting Program of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Burapha University committed to equipping its students with skills to meet the demands of the 21st century. This commitment led to the development of a special project titled “The Pathway to Art Toy Creation as a Career” which was held on September 30, 2024. The project aimed to provide students with knowledge and hands-on experience directly from experts in the Art Toy industry.
The project was led by Associate Professor Dr. Panu Suaysuwan, Head of the Creative Painting Program, who invited renowned sculptor Khun Surisak Ponpaipan to participate. Khun Surisak, is famous for his exceptional works such as “The Severed Head of Asura” and “Hanuman Crossing Lanka,” shared his expertise and guided students in professional Art Toy creation.
This project had key objectives to foster learning in Art Toy design and development, emphasizing practical experience. Students engaged in the project learned the entire process, from conceptual design and prototyping to creating original works. Additionally, the project provided an opportunity for students to observe and collect data from live demonstrations, enhancing their practical skills and broadening their career prospects in creative fields.
The project’s process began with lectures on Art Toy fundamentals, covering topics such as market trend analysis, creating unique designs, and sourcing inspiration. This was followed by workshops featuring professional demonstrations of sculpting and Art Toy design. These sessions allowed students to apply their knowledge and gain comprehensive understanding through hands-on practice.
The outcomes of this project highlighted its success in various aspects. Students gained a clear understanding of Art Toy creation processes and acquired practical experience that could be leveraged to build professional careers. The project also contributed to the promotion of contemporary art by integrating cultural heritage into innovative forms of expression. Communities benefited from this initiative through increased access to and engagement with art, fostering cultural sustainability.
The “Pathway to Art Toy Creation as a Career” project served as an exemplary effort in blending creativity with skill development. It aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which emphasizes on building sustainable cities and communities and preserving cultural heritage in ways that resonate with modern times. This initiative showcased the potential of Art Toy not only as a medium of artistic innovation but also as a tool for community enrichment and cultural preservation.
