Starring in the “Himmapan Project” are five cartoon creatures inspired by iconic statues at Thai Buddhist temples around the country. The idea is to give both children and adults a fun introduction to local spiritual landmarks around the country.
The statues are based on mythical creatures from the Buddhist/Hindu legend of Himmapan, the forest that surrounds the base of Mount Meru.
Artists gave the statues new life, transforming them into cartoon cuties that quickly became social-media sensations, said Kritsana Kaewthamrong, TAT’s deputy chief of domestic marketing.
The stars of TAT’s show are five cartoon creatures created by the artist twofeetcat.
"Singha Mom" is a lion-dragon inspired by statues at Khon Kaen's Wat Chetiyaphum.
"Phaya Naga" is a snake-dragon styled on statues at Udon Thani's Wat Pho Si Thung.
"Gold Hera" is a crocodile-dragon creature representing Ubon Ratchathani's Wat Chaiyaphum.
"White Hera" is another crocodile-dragon, this one inspired by Amnat Charoen's Wat Phanthuwet.
Finally, "Singha" is a lion guardian for Lampang's Wat Ko Walukaram.
The Himmapan Project includes tourism routes, sales promotions and a Facebook page gallery where other budding artists can show off their own Himmapan creations.