Roger Gary
Boasting an eclectic and thriving contemporary art sphere Bangkok is home to some of Thailand's most coveted art galleries. Showcasing local talent the Thai capital's best art hubs are as follows.
Having opened its doors to the public back in 2001 the Tang Gallery is a contemporary Chinese arts hub like no other in Bangkok. Showcasing contemporary works of art including watercolours, portraits, oils, landscapes, sculptures and wooden pieces the venue also houses prints and painted photographic works by well-known Chinese artists. A monthly exhibition also takes place in which Thai and Chinese artists display their latest works.
Set up as early as 1999 the H Gallery is the brainchild of H. Ernest Lee, an American art enthusiasts intrigued with contemporary art hailing from Thailand and other Asian countries. Occupying pride of place in the centre of Bangkok this enchanting space is located in a centuries old colonial home. Divided in to two areas the venue houses a wide variety of paintings, textiles and photography exhibits.
Tipped to be one of the must-visit highlights for art lovers scouring the streets of Bangkok the Museum of Contemporary Art in Bangkok or MOCA as it is more popularly known showcases the country's most comprehensive catalogue of Thai art and sculpture within its plush confines. Celebrating the talent of local artists across the ages this contemporary art hub provides an in-depth look at Thailand's contemporary art scene and its key players.
Located on its namesake street the Tonson Art Gallery is a tranquil art gallery set within an extensive private property spread across a whopping 100m2. Regarded as one of the city's finest private art galleries the Tonson Art Gallery's objective is to showcase and promote local artists as well as international artists in the contemporary art scene. Art installations, conceptual pieces and paintings decorate the gallery spaces of this venue which also displays photographic exhibits, sculptures and new media creations.
Ideally located close to the Klong Toei harbour the Bangkok University Art Gallery is a private gallery with a focus on the next generation of great Thai artists as well as seasoned masters. Housing a 153m2
Exhibition space devoted to local designers, artists and painters the venue features experimental works by artists exploring multidisciplinary modes of expression. Situated on two floors of the Bangkok University International College the gallery is open from 9.30am to 7pm from Tuesday to Saturday.
Regarded as the most revolutionary and progressive of all university art galleries in Bangkok the Chulalongkorn Art Centre is known to highlight some of the country's most innovative new artists with a cutting edge approach to creative expression. Hosting thematic and mass exhibitions by local and global artists the venue showcases both conventional and experimental art works including multi-disciplinary creations.
Often described as the epicentre of Bangkok's cultural sphere the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre is an art hub that not only engages with the contemporary art scene in Bangkok but the spheres of music, film, theatre and design as well. Hosting a number of exhibits annually the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre gives local and international artists a platform to launch their careers. Accessible free of charge the venue is open daily aside from Mondays. Visitors based in Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa or any other conveniently located Riverside Bangkok hotel will have easy access to the BACC and other art hubs in the city.
