Description
Wat Santi Kusuman (วัดสันติกุสุมาลย์) is an excellent place to view examples of the traditional Thai art of using plaster molding to create bas-relief paintings on the outer walls of a temple. In bas-relief (or low relief), the design projects only slightly from the background, giving the painting a 3-dimensional, tactile feel. This art form, more recently, has been resurrected by Thai artist Pakorn Klomkliang, whose bas-relief work won first prize in the Traditional Thai Painting category at the Bua Luang Painting Exhibition (2012).
At Wat Santi Kusuman, the bas-relief paintings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha and traditional Thai life, such as the Buddha being tended to by a monkey and elephant, the Buddha conquering Mara, the Buddha delivering the dharma, and more. There are also many sculptures, such as a Fat Buddha, Reclining Buddha, and Revered Northeastern Monks.
Wat Santi Kusuman is located in the Kusuman District of Sakon Nakhon (only about 40 minutes from the city center). This is an important area for Northeastern Thai Buddhism because it is the birthplace of Luang Ta Kham Dee Panyophaso (หลวงตาคำดี ปัญโญภาโส), who spent four years studying with the famous monk Luang Pu Fan Ajaro.
Luang Ta Kham Dee went on pilgrimages throughout Thailand, as well as other countries, spending much time meditating in the forests. He also was the Head Abbot of Sakon Nakhon Province (1995-2003), and spent time toward the end of his life at Wat Santi Kusuman, making this temple especially revered.
After visiting this temple, be sure to also visit the nearby temple Wat Na Pho (Sai Yoi), with its gorgeous white stucco exterior and sculptures.
