Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts Launches “Next-Gen Arts: Empowering Art Teachers with Soft Power” 

The Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, organized the “Next-Gen Arts: Empowering Art Teachers with Soft Power” project from November 25–27, 2024, at the Prince Palace Hotel, Mahanak. The event was inaugurated by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University. 

The project, held under the initiative to promote skills through art as part of the “One Family, One Soft Power Skill” (OFOS) policy, aligns with the Thai government’s goal to elevate Thai people to high-skill labor. Participants explore 11 key areas of the soft power industry, with “Art” being one of the prominent creative industries. This initiative received thesupport from the Department of Cultural Promotion under the Ministry of Culture, THACCA, and OFOS. The training welcomed 507 art teachers specializing in visual arts, music, and performing arts, representing 307 schools from the Central, Eastern, and Western regions of Thailand. 

Mr.  Sermkhun Kunawong, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Driving the Art Industry, delivered the opening lecture. Esteemed national-level art experts served as guest lecturers, offering insights through lectures and workshops. Notable contributors included Professor Emeritus Dr. Surapone Virulrak, National Artists such as Professor Emeritus Preecha Thaothong, Professor Decha Warashoon, Khun Patravadi Mejudhon, Khun Kru Phaitoon Kemkaeng, and Khun Kru Peep Khonglaithong, as well as other distinguished academics such as Professor Dr. Narapong Jarassri, Professor Dr. Bussakorn Binson, Professor Dr. Panchat Intarakong, Professor Dr. Viboon Trakunhun, Associate Professor Pusadee Limsakul, and Assistant Professor Dr. Haisang Chuanalikhit, supported by a team of assistants. 

The project aimed to utilize art as a medium to enhance skills and knowledge, enabling teachers to creatively produce, impart, and preserve artistic heritage. Through upskilling and reskilling, combined with the integration of technology and innovative methods, the initiative sought to expand aesthetic concepts. This knowledge could be applied to engage students, fostering interest and participation in art activities. Ultimately, the project strives to fortify Thailand’s creative cultural power, achieving sustainability and expanding its influence nationally and internationally. 

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