Mae Fah Luang University (MFU), through the Buddhist Art short programme and the Center for Academic Services, is hosting the "Before Thought" exhibition. The exhibition features works by the 5th batch of students (Academic Year 2025) from the Buddhist Art short programme. The exhibition is open to the public from 24 March to 10 May 2026 at Central Chiang Rai Art Gallery, G Floor, Central Chiang Rai. Organised as part of the Media Creation and Exhibition Design course for the second semester of the 2025 academic year, this project allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical experience. It provides a platform for them to systematically manage an art exhibition and sell their experimental creative paintings to raise funds for the programme's annual exhibition.
The official opening ceremony of the "Before Thought" exhibition took place on 1 April 2026. The event was presided over by Asst. Prof. Dr Natthawut Yodsuwan, Vice President of MFU. Congratulatory remarks were delivered by Mr. Songdej Thipthong, a programme instructor, and Mr Sayan Nakboon, General Manager of Central Chiang Rai. Ms. Paradee Sattarujawong, a student representative from the 5th batch, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and provided an overview of the exhibition's concept. The event was also attended by MFU lecturers, representatives from various sectors in Chiang Rai, and programme instructors who exhibited their works alongside the students, bringing the total number of exquisite art pieces on display to 29.
The concept of “Before Thought” represents a space for pausing and turning inward. It is not an observation aimed at seeking answers, but rather a perception of what already exists in the present moment, prior to interpretation or naming. The paintings featured in this exhibition are the culmination of the students' learning journey within the Buddhist Art Programme. This process transcends formal artistic skills, emphasising creativity cultivated through the practice of mindfulness, the contemplation of Dharma, and working harmoniously with life's uncertainties.
This exhibition aims to raise funds for the final exhibition of students in the MFU in Buddhist Art Short Course under the name "Inner Ground." Audience participation goes beyond supporting a future exhibition; it is a shared effort to cultivate an artistic space that gently questions life, where learning through art continues to flourish.
Additionally, the certificate presentation ceremony for 16 graduates of the 4th batch of the Buddhist Art short programme (Academic Year 2024) was hosted on 31 March 2026 at Vanchai Sirichana Building, Mae Fah Luang University. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Most Venerable Somdet Phramaharajamongkolmunee, Chief Abbot of the Central Region and Member of the Sangha Supreme Council, who presided over the event and delivered a congratulatory address to the graduates. The event was also attended by MFU executives, including Asst. Prof. Dr. Matchima Naradisorn, President of Mae Fah Luang University, Vice Presidents Prof. Dr. Sujitra Wongkasemjit, Asst. Prof. Dr. Phanuphong Chaiwut, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Natthawut Yodsuwan (who also serves as Acting Director of the Center for Academic Services); along with the programme instructors.
Since 2021, Mae Fah Luang University, Wat Rong Khun, Cherntawan International Meditation Center, and the Chiang Rai Artists Group have jointly offered the Short Course in Buddhist Art at MFU in Chiang Rai. This intensive programme promotes the study of Buddhist art through both theoretical and practical approaches, fostering sustainable self-development and social contribution at both national and international levels. It is offered free of charge to monks, novices, and the general public. To date, five cohorts have been completed with a total of 241 participants (55 monks/novices and 186 laypersons), whose Buddhist art works have been continuously showcased to international audiences.
