Time Capsule
The contour landscape model
The contour landscape model, made from laser-cut wood, is part of my previous project from a physical interaction class called "Interactive Landscape." This project serves as an educational tool designed to raise awareness about the preservation of mountain forests and the effects of deforestation and farming. Users interact with the model by placing it on a control board, where a projector illustrates the impacts of these activities on the environment.
I created this project based on my background as a landscape architect, inspired by my undergraduate thesis, which focused on the seasonal flooded forests near my dad’s hometown in northeastern Thailand. The seasonal forest was like a natural supermarket for my dad, where the river became his playground, and the surrounding animals and habitat were an essential part of life. This model connects to the memories of my father’s landscape and my love for the sustainable bamboo architecture common in that region.
“The wooden model represents the contour levels of the river terrain and the dynamic landscape of my dad's hometown. It reminds me of the harmony between culture, nature, and local economics in that region. Below are the photos I took of my dad's hometown, which further capture the essence of this connection.”
“ They reflect my passion for landscape design, sustainability, and my love for nature, which stems from my dad often sharing stories of his childhood and frequently taking me to visit his hometown. These memories are closely connected with my appreciation for the landscape and my interest in preserving it.”
Minolta Hi-Matic F, a compact rangefinder film camera
This Minolta Hi-Matic F camera is the one I used to capture photos in my dad’s hometown, a place surrounded by nature, rivers, and forests. It holds a special place for me because it's my first film camera, and it has traveled with me for over 10 years. I love the warm colors and the nostalgic feel of developed film. Shooting with this camera makes me more intentional. It’s about one shot, one moment. There’s an excitement in waiting for the result, whether blurry or perfectly composed, based on imagination at the time of shooting.
Traditional textile bag
Pha Khao Ma (ผ้าขาวม้า) is a traditional textile from my dad’s village in northeastern Thailand, near the river and forest. The navy dye is sourced naturally from local trees (ต้นคราม, ต้นฮ่อม, and ต้นเบือก). I admire how the locals make use of natural resources to create these textiles, merging craftsmanship with nature.
A traditional textile reminds me of my grandmother. She used to create natural dyes, including a navy blue dye, and made fabrics that my dad wore when he was young. My grandmother also wove these textiles herself using a traditional handloom, blending craftsmanship with nature in every piece. The process and fabric have been passed down through generations, connecting us to our roots and to nature’s beauty through her skilled hands.
All three items, the camera, wooden model, and Pha Khao Ma are tied to the same place: my dad’s hometown in north eastern of Thailand, where people live in harmony with the seasonal floods forest and nature.
