On 7 March 2025, Mae Fah Luang University, through the Buddhist Art short programme and the Centre for Academic Services, held a Certificate Awarding Ceremony for graduates of the Buddhist Art Short Programme (3rd Batch, 2023) and officially opened the "Spiritual Awakening in Buddhist Art" exhibition at the Chiang Rai Contemporary Art Museum. The exhibition features artworks by graduates of the programme, created in collaboration with experts and instructors.
Prof. Dr. Vanchai Sirichana, Chairman of the University Council presided over the ceremony and addressed the graduates. Asst. Prof. Dr. Matchima Naradisorn, MFU President, provided a progress report, and Dr. Natthawut Yodsuwan, Director of the Centre for Academic Services, announced the names of 32 graduates who attended out of 40 who completed the programme.
Distinguished guests included Dr.Chalermchai Kositpipat, National Artist and programme founder, who offered his congratulations; Mr. Prasert Jitplicheep, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai; Mr. Nakorn Pongnoi, Director of the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park (Rai Mae Fah Luang); and representatives from Mae Fah Luang University and varioua sectors in Chiang Rai. Ms. Mukdarasm Khampa, a graduate representative, expressed gratitude to the programme's founders, sponsors, and instructors including Mr. Songdej Thipthong, Mr. Wathit Sembut, Mr. Kajondet Niwyin, Mr. Watchara Kwangchai, and Mr. Kanjana Chonsiri.
The "Spiritual Awakening in Buddhist Art" exhibition is open to the public from 7 March to 20 April, between 09:00 and 18:00, at the Chiang Rai Contemporary Art Museum. Admission is free of charge.
About the Exhibition:
Buddhist art bridges the material and spiritual realm, translating Buddhist philosophy into visual expression. The exhibition showcases artworks reflecting a journey toward spiritual awakening through paintings, sculptures, and installations.
The exhibition's core theme revolves around the interplay of aesthetics and Buddhist principles, expressed through interpretations of tranquility, meditation, confronting suffering and detachment, mindfulness, and emptiness (sunyata).
Each work integrates Buddhist symbolism, spatial balance, and minimalism, creating a contemplative experience. The exhibition encourages introspection on life’s impermanence, the cycle of existence, and humanity’s connection with nature, guiding visitors toward wisdom and liberation from suffering.
See more pictures at https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=MFUTODAY&set=a.970796475180682
