The circle represents continuity without beginning or end, reflecting the Buddhist concept of Samsara (Saṃsāra), the endless cycle of birth, aging, illness, and death, which is deeply rooted in Thai culture. At the same time, a single piece of cloth has long been intertwined with Thai ways of life. It has served as everyday attire and as a material that supports, protects, and comforts the body from birth through illness and old age. It is also used in funeral rites as a symbol marking the end of life.

The creative work “Loop: Observing the Cycle of Life Through the Art of Wrapping, Tying, Folding, and Pleating the Circle Skirt” aims to reflect the cyclical nature of human existence. By applying traditional fabric manipulation techniques wrapping, tying, folding, and pleating, the project develops nine variations of the circle skirt, each representing different stages of life.

“Birth” refers to the moment when a baby is born alive from the mother’s womb. This stage is presented through the concept “Sūti.”

“Aging” refers to the increase in lifespan, which leads to changes in the body and lifestyle as people grow older. This stage is presented through the concepts “Sikkhā” and “Samarasa.”

“Illness” refers to physical pain caused by wounds, fractures, abnormalities, or the deterioration of the body, including diseases that create both physical and mental suffering. This stage is presented through the concepts “Sāhasa” and “Samāna.”

“Death” refers to the end of life, the cessation of vital signs, and the stopping of breath. This stage is presented through the concepts “Śūnya” and “Sugati.”

Together, these works represent the constant rotation, transformation, and impermanence of life. Furthermore, the project extends the conceptual foundation of traditional Thai clothing into contemporary contexts. It explores the potential of multi-functional skirts as adaptable garments, encouraging innovative and sustainable approaches to costume design while contributing to new ways of thinking about the costume design process and creative learning.