ROLES OF WOMEN IN PRESERVING AND CONTINUING THE SHADOW PUPPET CARVING IN NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims 1) The history and development of shadow puppet carving and women's roles in preserving and advancing this art form, 2) The factors contributing to change of this art form, and 3) Approaches to enhancing women’s roles in preserving and advancing this art form. This qualitative research included groups of key informants: 35 practitioners and people in general, selected by purposive sampling. The research tools comprised participant and non-participant observations, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The research revealed that 1) Shadow puppet carving is a traditional handicraft that has evolved alongside the performing arts of shadow puppetry, representing a cultural heritage of the South with an estimated history of over 180 years. Traditional shadow puppet carving consists of six steps, while contemporary practices encompass eight steps. The study identified two groups of shadow puppet carvers: those who adhere to traditional beliefs and those who do not. Historically. 2) Several factors contribute to this evolution of women’s roles. Internal factors include personal interests, skills in the craft, individual needs, and inspiration. External factors encompass economic and social conditions, tourism promotion, career promotion, and evolving social values. and 3) The promotion guidelines identified three key aspects: roles in conservation, continuation of tradition, and the carving process itself.