Art-Led Approach to Intangible Heritage Education: Wooden Boat Craftsmanship in Ayutthaya

Abstract

Ayutthaya, historically a vibrant port city, preserves the intangible heritage of wooden boat craftsmanship; however, this tradition faces challenges in its intergenerational transmission in the modern era. As young people’s lives become increasingly disconnected from wooden boats, the education system provides limited opportunities for engagement with this heritage. In response, this research investigates approaches for integrating contemporary educational practices with heritage conservation strategies. The study employs participatory, art-led methodologies to foster awareness and cultivate youth engagement in preserving this traditional craft. Conducted with 25 upper primary students from Wat Phanan Choeng School, it involved field visits to Sri Charoen Shipyard, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya’s oldest and only remaining shipyard that still employs traditional techniques, along with drawing exercises and questionnaires. Findings indicate that art-led activities effectively mediated students’ limited interaction with rivers and boats, fostering curiosity and enhancing appreciation for Ayutthaya’s identity as a “City of Water.” Recurring elements in their drawings included boats, water, and cultural landmarks, with Krachaeng boats prominently featured. Despite having limited prior familiarity with the shipyard, participants developed a sustained interest in wooden boat craftsmanship and envisioned their role in its future conservation. This study underscores the transformative potential of integrating creative and experiential pedagogies into heritage education, advocating for sustained academic-community partnerships to safeguard the continuity of traditional knowledge and skills.