Camilla Russell

The breakneck pace at which the Thai capital’s artistic community is developing can be daunting, so to help you navigate its bustling art scene, we’ve put together a list of exciting locations that promise to satisfy your creative itch and impress friends and loved ones. It’s time to paint the town red… and blue and green and every hue in between!  

What is it? N22 Bangkok is a community of five art galleries: Gallery VER, Studio Be Takerng Pattanopas, Cartel Art Space, Mads Box, and La Lanta Fine Art. They have carved a niche away from the commercial city center on Soi Narathiwas 22.  Why we love it: N22 was originally conceived by Rirkrit Tirvanija, the Thai artist who made cooking Pad Thai into performance art. Gallery VER and La Lanta Fine Art are the older siblings of the group, both opening in 2006, albeit in different original locations. Studio Be Takerng Pattanopas is an open studio that shows the namesake’s works, while Cartel Art Space may be physically small but packs a mighty punch in terms of artistic integrity. This band of gallerists support each other, and visitors may feel like they walked into a block party at times. Time Out tip: Each gallery has well-versed staff, so come prepared to have long discussions about the exhibitions and the state of world affairs. There is a cosy cafe  at the top of Soi Narathiwas 22 fittingly called Mille Journeys of Sweet and Happiness – isn’t that just the best way to end a day of art appreciation? Opening hours: N22 Bangkok, Tuesday to Sunday 10am-7pm. 2198/10-11 Soi Narathiwas 22, Bangkok, 10120  

What is it? Bangkok Art and Culture Centre fosters artistic learning and celebrates emerging and established Thai artists. It is located close to MBK and Siam Discovery Center, the area to visit when you want to discover the city’s next big fashion or food trend. Why we love it: BACC originated when a group of artists petitioned the government for a public art centre. In recent years BACC has hosted the Bangkok Art Biennale, which attracts the Gen Z selfie crowd as well as international media keen to write about the city’s burgeoning art scene. This is a friendly art hub that welcomes families, individuals seeking the next big creative find, and aspiring artists looking for inspiration amongst the many exhibitions on display throughout the building. Time Out tip: Come hungry, because BACC has restaurants aplenty. Mini Oriental Speedbar boasts a menu where everything is B65 tops. Opening hours: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, Tuesday to Sunday 10am-8pm. 939 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330  

What is it? Over the Influence Bangkok is the new kid on the block in the city’s art scene. After opening locations in LA and HK, the international art gallery expanded to BKK where it continues to introduce world-famous artists in a classic white space setting.  Why we love it: Think traditional highbrow painting with street art edge – that’s the personality of OTI BKK. The gallery is located in Chinatown, a hop-skip from Talat Noi, which is the place to be in Bangkok – locals love it, tourists rave about it, and its highly recommended restaurants require advance bookings for dinner. The building encompasses four floors,  the uppermost of which offers impressive views of the China Gate on Odeon Circle and unbeatable sunsets. This is the perfect place to bring a date because you can impress your paramour with artworks, then continue the evening at any of the chic eateries nearby. Time Out tip: Time your gallery visits to arrive before sunset, then go and enjoy dinner at Charmkrung, which is a mere five minute walk away. On the way to the restaurant, you will pass the iconic Optimus Prime statue watching over Circle Talat Noi. What better way to bless your evening than with a nod from the all-knowing leader of the Autobots? Opening hours: Over the Influence Bangkok, Wednesday to Sunday 11am-8pm. 81 Tri Mit Rd, Talat Noi, Bangkok 10100

What is it? Located in the heart of Old Bangkok, Matdot Art Center is a contemporary exhibition space and residency for international artists.  Whereas the area has an Old World European charm, Matdot is the revolutionary spirit shaking up the historic identity of the neighborhood. Why we love it: The art center is the brainchild of Tawatchai Somkong, editor-in-chief of Fine Art Magazine. Visitors have the opportunity to meet the artists-in-residence in person, a refreshing first in Bangkok, and to unwind in a non-commercial setting with like-minded individuals. This is the place to go when you are looking for mental stimulation and discourse on art for art’s sake. No painting by numbers here! Time Out tip: Join an opening night to immerse yourself in a colourful group of guests, or go solo to meet a resident artist who may invite you to their studio and chat about the creative life over a cup of coffee. Opening hours: Matdot Art Center, Monday to Sunday 10am-6pm. 47 Lan Luang Rd, Wat Sommanat, Bangkok 10100

What is it? Warehouse 30 Art and Creative Space is an artistic community located in an urban-chic industrial venue next door to the Portuguese Embassy. You can’t miss it because it boasts a permanent mural by Vihls, the famous Portuguese street artist. Why we love it: The cosy, historical neighborhood is the perfect weekend escape to satiate your visual senses and a great one-stop visit for friends new to the city. 333 Gallery and ATTA Gallery champion artists who reframe creativity in a fun way. Expect to take lots of photos for your vision board! Across the street, ATT19 Gallery features handicraft exhibitions as well as has a vintage shop and café that give off Soho vibes. Alexander Lamont’s interior design space is recognized by UNESCO for using Thai products and supporting  local artisans. Time Out tip: Call ATTA Gallery before visiting to schedule a casual meet and greet with the owner. Atty is a treasure trove of knowledge and her passion is infectious.  Opening hours: Warehouse 30 Art and Creative Space, Monday to Sunday 9am-6pm. 48 Charoen Krung 30, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500