I. Whispers and wonders: A temple spectrum

Part 1 of an international solo on ”Lanna“ by Lim Siang Jin. This online exhibition on contemporary photography, comprising 20 parts, is from May 6 to June 5, 2025

LANNA’S Buddhist temples reflect different approaches to the spiritual world. Fourteenth-century Wat Umong, with its underground tunnels and a moss-covered chedi, encourages quiet introspection. In contrast, the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), completed in 2016, draws visitors with its vivid colours and elaborate design. It is a place where Buddhist themes blend with modern artistry. Both temples express devotion in distinct ways—one through simplicity, the other through striking visuals. Their differing approaches show that spiritual connection can take many forms.

Wat Umong’s silent teachings

WAT UMONG, which follows the forest monk tradition, a branch of Theravāda Buddhism, is located near the gallery of my host in Chiang Mai, renowned artist Wattana Wattanapun. Focused on quiet reflection rather than ornamentation, its tunnels were designed for walking meditation. A former student of Buddhism, Wattana was eager to show me this place, noting that it stands apart from other temples in the city. The temple remains free from the mass tourist crowds and continues to be a refuge for monks and those seeking solitude. Many temples focus on merit-making, but Wat Umong takes a different path. Here, the practice is about turning inward, with nature and silence guiding the way.

Wat Umong’s silent teachings, 2025, digital art photography, Giclee print on canvas, 75cm H x 75cm W. Editions of 4

Reloaded devotion: The Blue Temple

WAT RONG SUEA TEN, the Blue Temple, a short walk from my hotel in Chiang Rai, blends Buddhist symbolism with contemporary design. Built in 2016 by Phuttha Kabkaew, a student of White Temple creator Chalermchai Kositpipat, the Blue Temple immediately catches the eye. Its deep blues, golden trim, and detailed murals create a bold presence. Rather than copy tradition, it reimagines it, using colour and design to echo Buddhist ideas of impermanence and release. Its striking visuals raise questions about how artistic expressions could adapt to spirituality while maintaining the core purposes of both. At the entrance, I captured a photo of a massive naga. Inside its mouth sat a golden Buddha, representing transcendence. I decided to soften the colours to reflect the softer side of the temple, I felt.

Reloaded devotion: The Blue Temple, 2025, digital art photography, Giclee print on canvas, 75cm H x 75cm W. Editions of 4

Beyond convention: Temples as art

WAT RONG KHUN (White Temple, Chiang Rai), Wat Rong Suea Ten, and Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple, Chiang Mai) reshape Buddhist temple architecture into art forms. They do so while maintaining spiritual significance. Wat Rong Khun’s white structure symbolises purity, the Blue Temple’s deep hues blend tradition with modern design, and Wat Sri Suphan’s silver craftsmanship reflects local artistry. The structures take us beyond familiar forms and show how sacred spaces can evolve. Some call these forms “engaged Buddhism”—a practice that adapts to changing times rather than remaining in the traditional mode. They are not just places of worship but artistic expressions of faith and cultural transformation.

The White Temple: Some see this as “engaged Buddhism”—a practice that adapts to changing times rather than remaining static.

For more information, click on links: Stephen Menon, O Art Space Gallery, Lim Siang Jin and his art, here and here. For a detailed acknowledgment, click here