Tired of cafe hopping? It’s time to go art hunting.
Emery Thanathiti
Art is everywhere in Bangkok, from the intricate carvings of antique Khon Masks to the dazzling architecture of the centuries old temples. But, beyond tradition, contemporary art hasn’t been given much thought—at least, not until recently.
The Bangkok Art Biennale is a set of contemporary art exhibitions installed in buildings and temples across the capital. Completely free and with over 20 locations, the BAB is a treasure hunt waiting to be embarked upon. Whether you’re an art connoisseur, an Instagrammer, or just passing by, these art installations will definitely pique your interest. Here are 4 locations to begin your exploration with.
Bangkok Art and Culture Center
BACC is the hub of contemporary art in Thailand with an impressive display of both local and international artworks for visitors to admire. Many of the artworks there are interactive, creating a truly immersive experience for the audience.
Once you walk in, it’s going to be hard the long stream of colors. Choi Jeong Hwa’s Basket Chandelier has quickly become a hit with local instagrammers, its colorful set up making for the best backdrop a model could ask for.
Naturally, the art installations aren’t on permanent display at BACC so make sure you get your pictures in before Choi’s works are switched out!
Address: 939 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Opening hours: Tues - Sunday 10AM-9PM
2. BAB at One Bangkok
Bangkok’s hottest new district in the making is also home to a number of paintings and sculptures of the BAB. They even showcased performances by artist Pichet Klunchun last November and is home to an interactive sculpture created by one of the most influential figures in conceptual art, Maria Abramović.
One of the most notable installations is “The Adventure of Sinxay” created by Hooptam Laos-Thai, a group of painters from Esan and Laos.
The district is still under construction with its first phase opening in 2020, but artworks are accessible and definitely worth a visit.
Address: 1032 1-5 Rama IV Rd, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 10AM-11PM, closed on Tues.
3. Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawiharn (Temple of the Iron Fence)
Built during the reign of King Rama III (1824-1851), the temple has decades of history behind it. Small and quaint, it was known for pristine white pagoda with smaller chedis built around the circumference. The recent art installments have, however, brought a whole new allure to the Wat.
One of the its most popular attractions is Nino Sarabutra’s “What Will You Leave Behind” – an installation of 125,000 ceramic skulls on the footpath surrounding the main chedi.
Taking off your shoes is a must to enter the Wat, but be sure to take off your socks too for the full experience.
Address: 24 Prajadhipok Rd, Khwaeng Wat Kanlaya, Khet Thon Buri, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand
Opening hours: Mon – Sun 8AM-5:30PM
4. Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahaviharn (Temple of Dawn)
The temple is already one of Thailand’s most dazzling temples, drawing in a lot of international visitors with its unique exterior. A temple made from the broken China found on the bottom of trading ships is art in itself. But it is also now home to three distinctive contemporary art installations.
Komkrit Tepthian’s “Giant Twins” sculpture immediately stands out visitors of the temple. Based on the concept of Siamese twins, Tepthian combines the image of the Chinese warrior and Yaksa together to symbolize the blending of Chinese and Thai culture. The sculpture has since garnered the attention of the press, its defiance of norms causing a stir.
Whether you’re visiting Bangkok or living there, Wat Arun is a must visit. But don’t forget to find those sculptures in the back!
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand
Opening hours: Daily 8:30AM-5:30PM
City life can get old for both tourists and locals. Many do not see past the shopping and food, but embark on this exploration and you’ll see much more of what Bangkok has to offer.
The rest of the locations can be found on: http://www.bkkartbiennale.com/
* This is a mock lifestyle type article written for an assessment.