Khon Kaen University (KKU), through the Faculty of Fine Arts conveys the profound value of art and culture in the upcoming 2025 Royal Graduation Ceremony. The design concept for the venue decoration and the royal dais is titled “Indigo Honouring Her Majesty the Queen Mother,” an art piece rooted in Isan wisdom that pays tribute to the immense royal grace of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who championed the continuation and elevation of Thai textiles onto the global stage. This concept reflects the beauty of faith, identity, and the spirit of Khon Kaen University graduates.
Associate Professor Burin Plengdeesakul, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Khon Kaen University and Chairman of the Venue Decoration Committee, revealed that this year’s graduation ceremony design concept is derived from the royal activities of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother. Her Majesty initiated and promoted the wisdom of local Thai textiles and handicrafts, particularly those from the Northeastern region, leading to the development of improved craft skills and the creation of contemporary products that have gained international recognition.
“One of the outstanding forms of wisdom in the Northeast is indigo-dyed fabric, which has evolved from a local textile into the valuable ‘Kram cloth’ (Indigo fabric). The colour indigo reflects a sense of composure, profoundness, and strength. It symbolises the Khon Kaen University graduates, who possess readiness in knowledge (Wit-thaya), morality (Jariya), and creative intellect (Panya),” stated Associate Professor Burin.
The Dean further explained the terms: Wit-thaya refers to excellent knowledge in various disciplines; Jariya signifies good conduct, integrity, and a sense of social responsibility; while Panya represents creative thinking. Associate Professor Burin emphasised that these are the crucial characteristics Khon Kaen University strives to instill in every graduate. The venue decoration for this year is divided into four main sections:
The venue decoration for this year is divided into four main sections:
The first section is the main lobby area, which welcomes graduates before they enter the Convention Centre. This area features the raw truth of materials and Thai handicrafts, allowing attendees to experience the value of local wisdom from the very first step.
The second section, located inside the Golden Jubilee Convention Centre, uses indigo tones to decorate the pathways and spaces. Through handicrafts, sculpture, and painting, this design conveys a sense of profoundness and composure, reflecting the identity of KKU graduates who are complete with Wit-thaya, Jariya, and Panya.
The third section is the royal dais (Thaan Prathap). The design application showcases the cultural dimension of Kram cloth by integrating the artistic unique characteristics of Sakon Nakhon province, a highly important source of indigo dyeing, to portray a concept of majestic elegance.
The fourth section, the Royal Private Chambers, displays a concept reflecting the benevolence of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, honouring her role as Patron and promoter of Thai heritage and wisdom, especially throughout the Northeast.
Associate Professor Burin concluded that the “Indigo Honouring Her Majesty the Queen Mother” concept is not merely about aesthetic design but is also a profound expression of gratitude for Her Majesty’s royal grace. Furthermore, it serves to convey the cultural value, art, and unique identity of Khon Kaen University during one of the most important ceremonies in the lives of all graduates.
News: Benjamaporn Mamook
Image: Faculty of Fine Arts / the Venue Decoration Committee
