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"Traditionally, art in Thailand has been sculptural or architectural."
Painting
Contributing to the lack of preserved two-dimensional art is Thailand's monsoon climate, which is not kind to paintings—not to mention the destruction of murals that accompanied the sacking of Ayuthaya in the 18th century. As creativity in sculpture has declined over the past two hundred years, however, painting has enjoyed an upswing. Most classical Thai painting is religious in nature: look inside temples for brightly painted murals, often scenes from the Ramakien (the Thai version of the Indian Ramayana epic). Devotees arrive at these chapels all day long, bearing gifts of fruit and flowers as well as paper-thin pieces of beaten gold that are pressed to the images in gratitude for favors bestowed.
Dance, Music, and Drama
The history of Thailand is encapsulated in its traditional dance and theater as well as in visual arts. Formal performances can be seen at the National Theater in Bangkok. However, the richest bounty is often as street shows in front of shrines and temples, especially during festivals and celebrations. Thai music is very intricate and is an usual accompaniment of Thai drama. The instruments, primarily woodwind and percussion, are usually grouped in five- or ten-piece ensembles. Musicians sit on the floor to play, and generally play by ear. Dance in Thailand is equally intricate, derived from Indian dancing and involving a series of gestures and swaying that interpret a story. Even the smallest movements reflect important story threads, carefully woven by performers dressed in elaborate clothing and headgear.
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