Mystical Creatures in Local Wisdom

Praewa Patterns of Thailand and Indonesian Batik as Cross-cultural Textile Motifs

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4013/sdrj.2026.191.10.

Abstract

This research presents a multicultural experiment that integrates local wisdom from Thailand and Indonesia to offer a novel perspective on cross-border artistic synthesis. The study is structured into two phases: a conceptual phase and an experimental phase. The first phase examines the cultural implications and identity of the Nak or Naga (serpent/dragon) within traditional textiles, focusing on production methods and symbolic interpretation. The second phase establishes a cross-cultural design framework for cultural branding, using Praewa silk from the Phu Tai community in Thailand and Indonesian Batik techniques as primary case studies. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research utilizes qualitative data from local community sources and quantitative analysis of market interest in contemporary textile applications. The study aims to synthesize heritage patterns by merging mystical creature iconography influenced by specific geographical indicators inherent to the origins of Batik and Praewa. By evaluating cultural influence and consumer viewpoints, this research contributes to the development of a cross-cultural identity and fosters innovative pattern designs that reflect contemporary community behavior. 

Author Biographies

Miss Desy, Center of Excellent Hastaloka Telkom University

Miss Desy Dwi Putri is a researcher at the Center of Excellence HASTALOKA, Telkom University, Indonesia, with a bachelor’s degree in interior design from Telkom University and a master’s by Research in Design program from Khon Kaen University, Thailand. Her work focuses on creative applications of local wisdom directly relevant to heritage patterns for textile, product, and interior.

Rattikorn Sirikhan Butla, Khon Kaen University

Dr. Rattikorn Sirikhan Butla serves as a lecturer in the Faculty of Architecture at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, specializing in interior design and furniture design with a focus on Northeastern Thailand culture as her primary topic of interest. 

Chanasda Chullasthira, Khon Kaen University

Dr. Chanasda Chullasthira serves as a lecturer in the Faculty of Architecture at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, specializing in product design and textile innovation. Holding a Ph.D. in Product Design from Ubon Ratchathani University, she focuses on weaving design management, cultural motif development, and transforming local Thai textiles into contemporary applications.

Suchanart Singhapat, Kalasin University

Bio: Dr. Suchanart Singhapat (also known as Boontiang, Suchanart) is a lecturer at Kalasin University in Thailand, with expertise in textile design. Her research focuses on the Phu Tai community in Kalasin for developing Praewa patterns in modern design and contributing to heritage conservation of Praewa textiles.

Rangga Firmansyah, Telkom University

Bio: Dr. Rangga Firmansyah serves as a lecturer in Interior Design at Telkom University in Bandung, Indonesia, with expertise in spatial design, interior architecture, interior furniture design, and local materials. His research focuses on perceptual psychology, universal design in public spaces like mosques, and cultural assimilation of traditional motifs into contemporary interiors. This includes studies on wood construction, Islamic architecture settlements, and eco-local creative design.

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Published

2026-09-14

Issue

Vol. 19 No. 1 (2026): Jan-Jun

Section

Articles

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