In the cosmopolitan city of Bangkok, numerous artist movements and creative institutions embody the history and spirit of the city, creating some of the most distinctive art styles in the world.
Art and media containing a unique blend of local culture and global influences can be found all around the city. Be entertained in Bangkok theatres and cinemas, or find some peaceful inspiration at galleries and cultural centres. For your next trip to Bangkok, here’s our guide to get a taste of the city’s arts and culture scene.
Bangkok Art Galleries
Bangkok’s art scene is abundant with unique art and cultural centres that each bring their own perspective on what Bangkok arts are really about. Galleries inspired by nature and driven by innovative design thinking have empowered the up-and-coming contemporary creative community, which have revitalised old neighbourhoods like Charoenkrung, Thonglor and Ekkamai.
The Naiipa Art Centre is a mixed-space property comprising offices, event spaces and a gallery. The building was thoughtfully and artistically designed around the old trees that were there long before construction started. This respect for nature makes Naiipa a great (and green) place for artists to explore the balance between urban city life and nature.
Another cool place to visit is the Thailand Creative & Design Centre, or TCDC. It hosts a number of contemporary exhibitions, holds lectures and organises workshops, all aimed at progressing Bangkok’s art scene and making it more relevant and accessible in today’s modern world.
There are loads of galleries across the city that are worth visiting for your creative escape, such as the RMA Institute, Toot Yung Art Centre, and Brownstone Studio. The National Gallery of Bangkok is a great Bangkok cultural centre, housing classical Thai heritage art that goes back centuries into the ancient kingdom’s history. Many of Bangkok’s galleries also have cosy coffee houses where you can enjoy a good brew while admiring the artworks.
Experience Bankgok Theatre
There are many live performances in Bangkok that can take your breath away, while also teaching you a lot about Thailand’s rich history.
A prime example of Bangkok theatre is Siam Niramit, which manages to condense the epic history of Thailand into a thrilling 90-minute live performance. This award-winning show takes you through 700 years of history, culture and tradition, complete with intricate sets, elaborate traditional costumes and great production value.
There are plenty of other live shows to choose from, such as Calypso Cabaret, Muay Thai Live, or the Aksra Theatre, which combine many performing and stunning visual arts styles to create a blend of traditional Thai performances with modern theatre.
Watch a Movie at a Bangkok Cinema
Finally, if you just want to kick back and enjoy a movie in Bangkok, you’re in luck — there are many exciting Bangkok cinemas to catch the latest local and international film productions.
You can find luxury comfort in Bangkok Airways Blue Ribbon Screens movie theatre, which offers a state-of-the-art experience, boasting one of the best sound and visual movie systems in town. The extra-spacious and lush couple seats, free drinks and even an optional foot massage provide you with a full-suite, premium cinema experience.
If you seek a more immersive experience, try the AIS 4DX Theatre, which shakes up the more familiar 3D movie with revolutionary 4DPlex technology. On top of the 3D screen-popping feature, you will also feel transported into the very movie itself with vibrating seats and environmental effects. Be prepared to get spritzed with cool mist should there be any rain in the movie! The kids are sure to love this family-friendly experience.
