When it comes to interior decoration, there are countless styles and themes to choose from. One style that has gained popularity in recent years is pagan-inspired interior decoration. This unique style draws inspiration from ancient pagan cultures and their connection to nature, spirituality, and symbolism. Paganism is a broad term that encompasses various beliefs and practices, including nature worship, polytheism, and animism. In pagan-inspired interior decoration, these elements are incorporated to create a space that feels connected to the natural world and evokes a sense of spirituality. One of the key features of pagan-inspired interior decoration is the use of natural materials.
“This time I have to leave again, I hope in the future I and my brothers and family will be able to visit Thailand again,” Vacharaesorn said at a news conference before he left the country.
Vacharaesorn is the third child and second-eldest son behind his brother Juthavachara, who is unlikely to be considered for succession due to his marriage to a foreigner. The Thai palace has remained largely silent as debate over Section 112 has intensified, though in 2020 then-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha said that Vajiralongkorn had urged authorities to refrain from charging people under the controversial law.
One of the key features of pagan-inspired interior decoration is the use of natural materials. Wood, stone, and other organic materials are often prominently featured in furniture, flooring, and decor. This not only adds a rustic and earthy feel to the space but also helps to establish a strong connection to nature.
Thai King’s Son Signals Openness to Criticism of Controversial Royal Defamation Law
A n exhibition in New York about a controversial Thai law that criminalizes insulting the country’s monarchy welcomed an unlikely visitor this week: the son of Thailand’s king.
Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, the estranged second son of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, showed up Monday to the “Faces of Victims of 112,” an exhibition at Columbia University that highlights stories of people who have either been imprisoned or gone into exile because of Section 112 of Thailand’s criminal code, a royal defamation law that observers say has been largely wielded against political dissent.
Lèse-majesté, which can carry a sentence of up to 15 years in jail, has covered a wide range of acts deemed offensive to the Thai royal family—from tongue-in-cheek jabs at the king (or at the king’s dog) to sharing social media posts critical of the monarchy. As frustrations with Thailand’s military-backed government reached a fever pitch in 2020 and 2021, protests swept the country and the repeal of Section 112 became a rallying cry. Since then, according to the organization Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, more than 250 people have been charged under Section 112, including children as young as 14 years old, for their political expression.
Most recently, the law was at the center of Thailand’s chaotic political transition this year: in a May general election, a plurality of the public supported the progressive Move Forward Party, which campaigned on reforming Section 112, but the party’s leader Pita Limjaroenrat was thwarted by the country’s conservative establishment from taking the top job. Instead, the second-place, populist party Pheu Thai, abandoned its previous alliance with Move Forward and partnered with royalist parties to form a new government led by Srettha Thavisin—though analysts believe public sentiment toward Section 112 will continue to define Thai electoral politics in the future.
After his visit to the Section 112 exhibition, the 42-year-old Vacharaesorn, who is a lawyer and lives in New York, wrote in a Facebook post: “I love and honor the monarchy. But I believe that ‘knowing’ is better than ‘not knowing.’ Each person has their own opinion that comes from their experience. If we don't listen to their opinions, it doesn't make their views and opinions disappear.”
The posture by the king’s son is an encouraging sign, says Thai political scientist Pavin Chachavalpongpun, the organizer of the exhibition and a prominent critic of the monarchy who has faced charges of violating Section 112 and now lives in Japan.
“Maybe he wants to use this opportunity to convey a message to the palace that this is the way that the Thai palace must go, for the sake of the monarchy’s own survival,” Pavin tells TIME.
Protesters demonstrate against Section 112, Thailand's royal defamation law, in Bangkok on Jan. 26, 2023. Varuth Pongsapipatt—SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Images
Vacharaesorn’s appearance and comments come just a month after he and his brother, Chakriwat, made a surprise trip to Thailand—their first return in nearly 30 years, since then-Prince Vajiralongkorn announced his divorce from their mother in 1996. The August trip, during which Vacharaesorn was photographed riding a tuk-tuk, eating pad thai, and visiting historical sites, sparked speculations that he is being considered as a potential successor, which the 71-year-old Vajiralongkorn has not yet officially named.
The future of the Thai royal family was thrown into uncertainty in December when the king’s first daughter and eldest child Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati collapsed and went into a coma. She is believed to remain in hospital on life support, though there have been few official updates on her condition. Among the king’s six other children across his four marriages, there is no heir apparent. Vacharaesorn is the third child and second-eldest son behind his brother Juthavachara, who is unlikely to be considered for succession due to his marriage to a foreigner.
The palace did not comment on Vacharaesorn and his younger brother Chakriwat’s visit to Thailand, and it’s unclear if they met with their father. But observers note that such a return would have been very unlikely without approval from the monarchy.
“Without the green light from the palace, he wouldn’t have been able to return home. So the fact that he went home … he had to get some kind of permission,” says Pavin. “Perhaps they are looking into him as a kind of alternative to the succession.”
“This time I have to leave again, I hope in the future I and my brothers and family will be able to visit Thailand again,” Vacharaesorn said at a news conference before he left the country.
Whether Vacharaesorn’s social media post on the Section 112 exhibition could help or hurt his chances of ascending to the throne is not quite clear. The Thai palace has remained largely silent as debate over Section 112 has intensified, though in 2020 then-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha said that Vajiralongkorn had urged authorities to refrain from charging people under the controversial law.
“If [Vacharaesorn] wants to be someone important in Thailand in the future, he has to stand on his own legs,” says Pavin. “Anyone with sense, or intelligent enough, or progressive enough, they must know that the Thai monarchy cannot go on like this.”
Plants and greenery also play a significant role in pagan-inspired interior decoration. Having living plants in the space not only adds a touch of nature but also promotes a sense of harmony and balance. In pagan belief systems, plants are often associated with healing, fertility, and growth, making them an essential element in this style. Symbolism is another important aspect of pagan-inspired interior decoration. Ancient pagan cultures often used symbols to represent various aspects of nature, deities, and spiritual beliefs. Incorporating these symbols into the decor can add depth and meaning to the space. For example, the use of the triquetra, an ancient Celtic symbol representing the interconnection of earth, air, and water, can be incorporated into artwork or in the design of furniture. Colors also play a crucial role in pagan-inspired interior decoration. Earthy tones such as greens, browns, and yellows are commonly used to create a warm and grounded atmosphere. These colors are reminiscent of the natural world and help to evoke a sense of peace and harmony. Overall, pagan-inspired interior decoration offers a unique and spiritual approach to home decor. By incorporating natural materials, plants, symbolism, and earthy colors, one can create a space that feels connected to nature and evokes a sense of spiritual tranquility. Whether one follows a pagan belief system or simply appreciates the aesthetic, this style can bring a touch of the ancient world into modern living spaces..
Reviews for "Celebrating the Wheel of the Year: Pagan-Inspired Interior Design for Seasonal Transitions"
1. Jennifer - 2/5
I was really disappointed with the pagan inspired interior decoration I recently came across. I found it to be quite tacky and tasteless. The excessive use of symbols and motifs associated with paganism felt forced and out of place in a contemporary setting. It lacked the elegance and subtlety that I appreciate in interior design. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this style to those looking for a sophisticated and timeless look for their home.
2. Mark - 1/5
I have to say, I really disliked the pagan inspired interior decoration trend that seems to be gaining popularity. As someone who prefers minimalistic and clean aesthetics, the excessive use of natural elements, such as animal skulls and feathers, just didn't appeal to me. It felt like an attempt to be edgy without much thought put into creating a cohesive and visually pleasing space. Moreover, the overuse of dark and earthy colors made the rooms feel gloomy and unwelcoming. Personally, I would pass on this trend and opt for something more light and airy.
3. Laura - 3/5
I have mixed feelings about the pagan inspired interior decoration I've seen. While I appreciate the connection to nature and the celebration of earthy elements, I found some examples to be a bit overwhelming. The overuse of bold patterns, rustic textures, and magical symbols made the spaces feel cluttered and chaotic. However, I can see how this style can appeal to some individuals who are looking for a more bohemian and eclectic atmosphere. It's certainly not for everyone, but it might work for those seeking an unconventional and mystical vibe in their home.
4. Michael - 2/5
I must admit, the pagan inspired interior decoration didn't impress me. It seemed like a mishmash of different spiritual themes and symbols without a clear direction or purpose. The mix of pagan, Wiccan, and other mystical elements felt disjointed and lacking in authenticity. Additionally, the heavy use of drapes, dark colors, and rustic furniture gave the rooms a dated and cluttered look. Overall, I found this style to be lacking cohesion and refinement, and I wouldn't personally choose it for my own home.