Preserving Mudmee Silk Heritage: A Knowledge Management Framework for Exhibition Design and Sustainable Cultural Development in Northeast Thailand
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Abstract
Traditional mudmee silk weaving in Northeast Thailand faces critical knowledge transmission challenges as master artisans age without systematic knowledge transfer to younger generations. This research investigates how knowledge management frameworks, that integrate with contemporary exhibition design can effectively preserve and transmit endangered craft heritage while supporting community development.
The study employs the SECI (Socialization, Externalization, Combination, Internalization) knowledge conversion model (Nonaka & Takeuchi, 2019) to systematically transform tacit weaving knowledge into explicit, accessible formats. Through qualitative methodology comprising in-depth interviews with 10 master of exhibition design and fabrics, field surveys across 3 weaving communities in Khon Kaen Province, and employing data derived from stakeholder questionnaires, encompassing youth, designers, and members of the general public, this research develops a comprehensive exhibition design framework that bridges traditional knowledge with contemporary learning approaches.
This research successfully documents the endangered silk mudmee weaving techniques, encompassing the intricate tying and dyeing processes historically employing natural plant based dyes as well as the repository of traditional textile patterns with their cultural significance. The tacit knowledge of master weavers particularly the nuanced skills in controlling silk thread tension, color decision making, and pattern visualization has been captured through multimodal documentation that synthesizes video demonstrations, haptic descriptions, and the metaphorical language naturally employed by practitioners to convey their embodied expertise.
The multisensory interactive exhibition design, comprising hands-on weaving stations, natural dyeing demonstrations, Augmented Reality-enabled pattern exploration, and live practitioner demonstrations, enhanced visitors’ cultural knowledge retention compared to conventional static displays. Youth engagement (ages 15-24) increased when exhibitions incorporated contemporary design applications, interactive digital elements, and opportunities for creative experimentation within traditional frameworks.
The exhibition design framework establishes successful knowledge transmission pathways between master artisans and younger generations. Field research data reveals that the majority of participants prioritize: (1) understanding practical contemporary applications, (2) experiential learning over verbal instruction, (3) visual and digital learning modalities, and (4) opportunities for creative expression rather than exact replication. Exhibition designs that address these preferences effectively engage younger-generation visitors and facilitate intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Community-centered exhibition design generates measurable economic benefits, including increased sales of traditional textiles, enhanced cultural tourism revenue, and supplementary monthly income for community members. In 2021, Thailand exported silk textiles valued at over 364 million baht, and the 19th Nok Yoong Royal Emblem Fair in 2024 generated over 30 million baht in revenue within four days. These economic outcomes demonstrate that cultural preservation can sustain community livelihoods when designed with market accessibility and visitor engagement as core components. (Ministry of Industry, 2023)
Replicable Framework: The developed five-component exhibition framework comprising immersive knowledge zones, digital archive integration, technology-enhanced learning, multi-sensory engagement, and community co-creation spaces provides a systematic model applicable to endangered craft traditions beyond mudmee silk weaving. The framework’s emphasis on community voice, authentic representation, contemporary relevance demonstration, and partnership-based resource mobilization offers practical guidance for heritage practitioners, museum professionals, and cultural policymakers
This research establishes that exhibition design, when grounded in systematic knowledge management, community participation, and contemporary learning theory, constitutes a powerful tool for intangible heritage preservation. The study contributes theoretical advancement in applying organizational knowledge management frameworks to cultural heritage contexts while providing evidence-based practical solutions for communities worldwide facing traditional knowledge transmission challenges.
Highlights
In the heart of Northeast Thailand’s cultural landscape, where ancient looms whisper stories of generations past, a revolutionary transformation is quietly unfolding. The traditional art of mudmee silk weaving once confined to village workshops and passed down through whispered instructions From generation to generation now stands at the threshold of a digital renaissance that promises to bridge centuries of wisdom with contemporary innovation.
Article Details
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Copyright: CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
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