Peppered throughout Bangkok is a vibrant and fast-growing art scene. From minimalist pieces to contemporary installations, Thai artists are experiencing a new wave that is encouraging them to move towards international success. And visitors are finding fascinating stories within Bangkok's art sphere. Whether you're an artist, an art enthusiast or simply a curious traveller, the best art galleries in Bangkok are a must-feature in your itinerary.
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Image credit to Bangkok CityCity Gallery |
Known as the home base of the renowned artist and sculptor Alex Face, Bangkok CityCity Gallery houses an excellent collection of contemporary art. There is no limitation to the art forms displayed in this minimalist building, although special attention is paid to printing. Situated at the heart of Bangkok, it is located right by Lumpini Park.
Location: 13/3 Soi Atthakan Prasit, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 1PM to 7PM (closed on Monday & Tuesday)
Web: bangkokcitycity.com
Phone: +66 83 087 2725
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA BANGKOK)
Image credit to MOCA BANGKOK |
Located in the Chatuchak area, MOCA exhibits works of art inspired by traditional Thai modes of expression and art that have been influenced by Western artistic styles and techniques. Besides, over 800 pieces of art from its founder's private collection, Boonchai Bencharongkul, are exhibited. MOCA is about 6.5 km north of the Mo Chit BTS Skytrain Station. It's easiest to take a taxi from outside Mo Chit station.
Location: 499 Kamphaengphet 6 Road, Ladyao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10AM to 6PM (closed on Monday)
Web: mocabangkok.com
Phone: +66 2 016 5666
100 Tonson Foundation
Image credit to 100 Tonson Foundation |
One of Bangkok's first contemporary galleries, 100 Tonson Foundation also ranks among the best for hosting hundreds of exhibitions, art fairs and challenging projects. It doesn't just feature art – it is also a non-profit organisation that fosters workshops and collaborations between local and international artists. Visitors can enjoy an occasional dance performance as well.
Location: 100 Soi Ton Son, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330
Opening Hours: Thursday – Sunday, 11AM to 7PM (closed Monday to Wednesday)
Web: 100tonsonfoundation.org
Phone: +66 81 699 5298
Nova Contemporary
Image credit to Nova Contemporary |
Nova Contemporary is based near Rajdamri BTS Station, right in Bangkok's central area. Tucked within the luxurious Baan Somthavil complex, the exhibition space is sleek and minimal to match its speciality: contemporary art. Featuring both Thai and international artists, this gallery complements its carefully curated collection with educational talks from artists and collectors.
Location: Ground Floor of Baan Somthavil, Soi Mahadlek- Luang 3, Rajdamri Road, Lumpini, Bangkok 10330
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 11AM to 7PM (closed on Sunday & Monday)
Web: www.novacontemporary.com
Phone: +66 90 910 6863
ATT 19
Image credit to soimilk.com and Asia City Media Group |
ATT 19 was founded by a legendary family of art connoisseurs, who brought art, antiques and fashion design together in one multidisciplinary art hub. The converted heritage building beguiles with its airy spaces; contemporary artworks hang under an exposed teakwood ceiling. The ground floor shop offers collector collectables and handcrafted antiques, while an on-site restaurant rounds up the set to form a well-rounded afternoon stop.
Location: 19 Captain Bush Ln, Khwaeng Bang Rak, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11AM to 7PM (closed on Monday)
Web: linktr.ee/att19.bkk
Phone: +66 2 639 5871
Eat Me Restaurant
Image credit to crumbriafoodie.com |
One of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, Eat Me is tucked away in Soi Convent of Silom, Bangkok's business district. It is a must-visit, not only to experience gastronomical innovations but also to sip wine and view the artworks decorated on its walls. Eat Me has a rolling programme of art exhibitions from local and international artists.
Location: 1/6 Soi Phiphat 2, Convent Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday 5PM to 12AM, Friday - Saturday 3PM - 1AM and Sunday 3PM - 12AM
Web: eatmerestaurant.com
Phone: +66 2 238 80931
The Queen's Gallery
Image credit to The Queen's Gallery |
Established by Queen Sirikit of Thailand in 2003, The Queen's Gallery has become one of Bangkok's best art galleries. Its expansive local art collection is spread out over four floors, featuring both established artists and emerging talents. Located in Bangkok's Old Town, the gallery is easily accessible via public transport. There's a 50-baht entrance fee for both foreigners and locals.
Location: 101 Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
Opening Hours: Thursday – Tuesday, 10AM to 7PM (closed on Wednesday)
Web: www.queengallery.org
Phone: +66 2 281 5360
JWD Art Space
Image credit to JWD Art Space |
JWD Art Space is not just a gallery space; it is a reputable logistics company with specialists who handle and store precious artworks. Whether you're moving several art pieces or hoping to put away an extensive collection, their specialised team has all the solutions. The spacious gallery also hosts exhibitions for local and international artists on a two to three-month rotation.
Location: Level 3, 188/72, Chulalongkorn 16, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10AM to 7PM (closed on Monday)
Web: www.jwd-artspace.com
Phone: +66 2 710 4060
Kalwit Studio & Gallery
Image credit to onarto.com |
Owned by the Chirachaisakul family, this urban gallery highlighted their passion for printmaking and made Kalwit Studio & Gallery a well-known Mezzotint art producer. Other featured art forms include surrealist paintings and street art; the works conform to social issues. It is about 1 kilometre from the Ploenchit BTS Station.
Location: 119/14 Soi Ruamrudee Community, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10AM to 6PM (closed on Monday)
Web: www.kalwitgallery.com
Phone: +66 2 254 4629
Kathmandu Photo Gallery
Image credit to Travel Notes |
Located in Bangkok's gem district is an enticing stop-through: a restored shop-house turned art gallery. Owned by Manit Sriwanichpoom, a photo-artist of international acclaim, Kathmandu Photo Gallery is exceptionally atmospheric. This art gallery features both established and emerging artists: from Manit's own framed prints to a rotating exhibit in the second-floor gallery.
Location: 27 21 Soi Pradipat, Khwaeng Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 12PM to 8PM (closed on Sunday)
Web: www.facebook.com
Phone: +66 81 890 1554
Chamchuri Art Gallery
Image credit to cu100.chula.ac.th |
Just a short walk away from MBK Shopping Center, Chamchuri Art Gallery is one of many attractions within Chulalongkorn University. It is a medium-sized art gallery that focuses on emerging talents – both university students and rising local artists. Browse through the rotating exhibits for free; the three rooms offer a wide variety of art.
Location: Chang Wat Bangkok,10330
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10AM to 7PM
Web: chula.ac.th
Phone: +66 2 218 3709
Ratchademnoen Contemporary Art Center (RCAC)
Image credit to happyschoolbreak.com |
You do not have to stop long at the Ratchademnoen Contemporary Art Center (RCAC) to appreciate its collection. Four-stories high and with historical roots, its commemorative makeover during King Bhumibol’s 84th Royal Birthday Anniversary guarantees an exciting venue for contemporary artists. The lower floors display temporary exhibits that run from sculptures to paintings, while the third floor boasts an ASEAN cultural library.
Free entry and varied works make it a great place for youth visitors as well. It is open from 10AM to 6PM with occasional workshops.
Location: 84 Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 10AM to 7PM (Closed on Monday)
Web: www.arcac84.com
Phone: +66 2 224 8030 ext. 202, 302, 315
Aurum Gallery
Image credit to thebigchilli.com |
The passion project of a worldwide creative, Clifford Price a.k.a Goldie, Aurum Gallery is quickly building a reputation within Bangkok’s Creative District. Drop by Warehouse 30 to see how this underrated art gallery fits into the refurbished space. It draws inspiration from New York in the 80s – graffiti and street art make the bulk of the collection. International artists who have featured here include Vhils, Ben Eine, Keithen Carter; local names include Benzilla, Wal Chirachaisakul and P7. Anyone with artistic vision can look forward to master classes, or simply watch artists in action in the live workshop space.
Location: Warehouse, 30 Charoen Krung Rd Soi 30, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500
Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 10AM to 7PM (Closed on Monday)
Web: aurum.gallery/
Phone: +66 2 102 1785
ARTIST+RUN
Image credit to adaymagazine.com |
ARTIST+RUN, one of the few galleries in Narradiwat 22, is renowned for its personal touch. The owner, Angkrit Ajchariyasophon, does not just curate edgy and upcoming artwork – he hosts a 'living room' where artists are invited to present their work. This creative space is somewhat interactive, and the exhibitions are regularly rotated to keep things fresh.
Location: 2198/10-11 Naradhiwat Rajanagarindra Rd., Soi 22, Chong Nonsi, Yan Nawa, Bangkok 10120
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 1PM to 6PM
Web: www.artistrun2016.com
Phone: +66 99 454 5955
Sombat Permpoon Gallery
Image credit to contestwar.com |
With over 10,000 works of art on display and for sale, Sombat Permpoon Gallery rounds off this list. The ground floor is open for general browsing, but visitors require permission to venture into the upstairs exhibition space. It features Thai artists of all generations, including art pieces that are worth millions.
Location: 12 Sukhumvit 1 Alley, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 101100
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9AM to 7PM
Web: sombatpermpoongallery.com
Phone: +66 2 254 6040
YELO House
Image credit to BK Magazine |
YELO House was made as a social space for the creative community and houses an art gallery, café and co-working space. The spacious warehouse features work by university students as well as merchandise whose proceeds go to charities. Just around the corner from Siam and Jim Thompson House Museum, it is a great place to spend the afternoon.
Location: 20, 2 Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9AM to 9PM
Web: www.yelohouse.com
Phone: +66 98 469 5924
1PROJECTS (temporary closed)
Image credit to 1PROJECTS |
1PROJECTS is an active voice in the art scene, thanks to its founder, who is trying to elevate the contemporary Asian art scene through overseas events and local exhibitions. Although extensive by no means, the gallery displays a stunning collection by well-known artists such as Dusadee Hentrakul, Pannaphan Yodmanee and more. It is located near River City and Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel.
Location: 672, 63 Soi Charoen Krung 28, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500
Opening Hours: Saturday – Sunday, 1PM to 7PM (closed Monday to Friday)
Web: 1projects.org
Phone: : +66 81 699 5298
6060 Arts Space
Image credit to preawpak.com |
Combining a restaurant and an art gallery, 6060 Arts Space is a cosy venue tucked away in a small alley. This non-profit art gallery is dedicated to promoting Bangkok's artistic community. From hosting performance art events such as solo theatre acts to repainting a blank wall with colourful graffiti, 6060 demonstrates how art expresses personal stories.
The closest BTS station is Saphan Taksin, just 600 meters walk away. You can also use the nearby Mandarin Oriental Hotel as a marker. Set within O.P. Garden Shopping Arcade, it’s one of many speciality craft shops in the building.
Location: 27 21 Soi Pradipat, Khwaeng Samsen Nai, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 12PM to 8PM (closed on Sunday)
Web: 6060artsspace
Phone: +66 81 890 1554
Sathorn11 Art Space
Image credit to Sathorn11 Art Space |
Sathorn11 Art Space is nestled in the residential alley of Sathorn Soi 11. Besides offering two-floor exhibition space, the building is home to Thai artists from across the country. This means that visitors can enjoy the ever-changing exhibitions before mingling with fellow art lovers and artists. A comfortable bar area transforms Sathorn11 into a monthly art event host and function rental.
Location: 404 Soi Sathorn 11, Thung Wat Don, Sathon, Bangkok 10120
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 5PM to 1AM (closed on Monday)
Web: www.sathorn11.com
Phone: +66 2 004 1199
PLAY art house (temporary closed)
Image credit to PLAY art house |
If you prefer an intimate art-perusing experience, PLAY art house comes with a friendly caretaker who explains the concepts behind each piece. The stark white rooms work nicely to showcase the mix of photo prints and paintings. Situated just outside Chinatown, this small art gallery is easily accessible via Wat Mangkon MRT Station.
Location: 993 Song Wat Rd, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11AM to 4PM (closed on Monday)
Web: playarthouse.com
Phone: +66 99 252 9191
Bridge Art Space
Image credit to preawpak.com |
Artist-run spaces have been emerging in the recent decade, Bridge Art Space being one of them. The gallery lives up to its name, working with young artists to bring various exhibitions and events where traditional art and contemporary media collide. The unique art space comes with an aesthetic coffeehouse. It is within walking distance of the Taksin BTS Station.
Location: 75 Soi Charoen Krung 51, Yan Nawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10120
Opening Hours: Friday – Saturday, 1PM to 7PM (closed on Sunday to Thursday)
Web: www.bridgeartspacebkk.com
Phone: +66 89 666 2051
About MePhotographer and visual storyteller based in BangkokBRYCE Watanasoponwong is a Thai-Australian photographer and visual storyteller. He is interested in producing a narrative series that evoke emotion and make a personal impact. Becoming more involved in how is photography is... read on |