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Photo: Akha hilltribes woman Study Groups are gatherings of about ten to twelve NMV members who meet weekly for about 5 - 6 weeks to study a particular topic.

Topics cover an aspect of Thai or Asian culture and include:
  • Hilltribes
  • Royal Temples of Bangkok
  • SE Asian Textiles
  • Hindu Gods
  • Thai Ceramics
At the start of the Study Group, the Leader distributes a syllabus and suggested reading and reference information.
Each member chooses a topic to study in detail.
Every week, one or two group members give a short presentation on their specific topic, usually accompanied by presentation media.
The Study Group leader may assist members in gathering research and presentation materials.

Thai Temple Murals


Mural paintings from NanOrientation: Monday, February 22nd

Dates: March 8, 15, 22, 29 and April 5th

Leaders: Joyce Meer and Bill Lipsey

Place: To be announced

The Thai temple was not only elaborately decorated externally; the interior walls also were exquisitely painted, mainly by anonymous artists. These murals were not merely decorative but served as instructions to make the teachings of Theravada Buddhist scriptures, which were always written in Pali language, more accessible to all.

Besides exploring the technical, aesthetic, and narrative aspects of Thai murals, we will study the different schools of painting and the sources of inspiration, such as the Ten great Jatakas, the life of the historical Buddha, and the Traiphum or the Three Worlds. We will also include the Lanna, Isan, and the southern styles and contemporary murals in our study as well; and we will enrich our experience with two field trips to examine murals in situ.

NMV members who wish to participate in this study group must sign up by sending an e-mail to Else Geraets: else@asianet.co.th

Southeast Asian Ceramics


Orientation: Monday, April 19th,

Dates: Mondays, May 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th

Time: 9.30am – 12.00pm

Leaders: John J.Toomey and Siew-Eng Koh

Place: South East Asian Ceramics Museum, Bangkok University, Rangsit Campus

Following the very successful tour of the Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum last July, we are very pleased to announce that our next Study Group will be on Southeast Asian Ceramics. We are especially fortunate that the Museum has kindly agreed to host our meetings at their premises.

Participants will have the chance to examine the Museum’s vast and wonderful collection of shards, view at close range its rich and exquisite collection of ceramics from Thailand and neighboring countries, and gain access to its library resources. Additionally, participants will hear experts K. Burin, Curator of the Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum, and Walter Kassela, Researcher and Museum Volunteer speak.

Don’t miss this very special “hands-on” opportunity to study, identify and appreciate Southeast Asian ceramics. The size of this group is limited. Please contact the study group co-ordinator Else Geraets: else@asianet.co.th to sign up.

Study Groups usually comprise members of many different backgrounds and nationalities, resulting in a stimulating and interesting group learning session.

Any National Museum Volunteer member is welcome to join a Study Group.
The focus is on cooperative learning in a fun and participatory manner. No prior academic or special skills are required.
The only requirements are interest in exploring the topic and a commitment to attend most sessions.

Proposed Study Groups are advertised in the NMV Newsletter.
© 2010 NMV National Museum Volunteers Bangkok Thailand