For the future of Asian Elephants A fashion show with a difference

A press conference was held recently at the Elephant Life Experience camp, timed to coincide with the 10th National Elephant Day last March 13. The subject was a research project, set up six years ago, with the aim of discovering why there are problems with the breeding of elephants in Thailand. It was discovered that Asian female elephants become infertile if they have not produced a calf by the time they reach the age of 20-25 years. Elephants in captivity are extremely hard to mate, as they are very “choosy.” In the past, zoos have transported elephants thousands of miles to other zoos – only to find they “don’t get on.”

One of the beautifully designed and painted dresses on show.

Retired Prof. Reino Hofmann, previously with the Berlin Life Research Institute, first came to Thailand over nine years ago, and travelled throughout the northern region investigating ways to preserve the Asian Elephant. He eventually met up with Anchalee Kalmapijit, and found that they shared the same ideals about ensuring the preservation of the Asian Elephant for future generations. She was able to introduce him to veterinarians at Chiang Mai University. As a result, a program was eventually set up, headed by Thai people.

Veterinarian Sittawee Tongtipsiridetch and staff from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, explained at the press conference the progress of the research being carried out, which is centred on improving elephant breeding potential through artificial insemination. Elephant semen is very large and also extremely fragile, having a large membrane. The main problem found was the preservation of semen over long periods of time; at present, it is only successful within two days. Due to the temperamental nature of elephants and their reduced numbers in the wild, this work is vital for future generations.

After the press conference, Anchalee Kalmapijit unveiled a Fashion Show at the Elephant Life Experience. Guests of honor included Dr Mom Chao Duangduan of Chiangmai and TAT Director Junnapong Saranak. The show was conceptualized through “Inspired Creativity” and involved seven elephants making the fabric designs and 22 models showing the collection. British designer Lawrence Goldberg and Thai designer Apinporn Kiratibhumidhama collaborated in over 40 unique outfits painted by the elephants. The main sponsors of this event were the Hug Elephant Club, of which Anchalee is President, TAT, and the Maetaman Elephant Camp. The objectives of the fashion show were to publicize the development of Elephant Art in Thailand and to fund the Thai Elephant Conservation campaign.

This unique event can see this unique designer collection went on display at the Ngan Chang event in the Northern Village Area situated on the first and second floors of Central Airport Plaza.