Cultural IDENTITY FORMATION OF COSTUMES IN THE PAGEANTRY OF PHRATHATPHANOM WORSHIP FESTIVAL

Abstract

This research article examines the cultural identity formation of costumes used in the pageantry of the Phrathatphanom Worship Festival. The study adopts a qualitative approach, gathering information from documents and field research through interviews, surveys, and observations with local experts, artisans, and community stakeholders. The analysis draws on theoretical frameworks from folklore, symbolic interactionism, semiotics, structural functionalism, and identity theory. Findings reveal that costumes, including clothing, headgear, and accessories worn during the procession, reflect the distinct cultural identity of the Phrathatphanom region. The creation of this identity is based on two key sources: oral traditions and written records such as the Urankanithan, as well as historical documentation including restoration chronicles and archival photographs. Four groups of indicators guide the design process: color, textile patterns, photographic evidence, and written documents. Each serves as a foundation for costume design that communicates cultural values and identity in a tangible and meaningful way.