Culture

Launched in 2011 by Boonchai Bencharongkul, a telecommunications billionaire, the Museum of Contemporary Art is home to a comprehensive modern-art collection. It boasts the largest private art and sculpture collection in Thailand.  Catch the best of the country’s talent – originating from the northern hills of Chiang Rai right through to the beaches of Phuket – in one spacious setting. The collection includes work by the reclusive jungle-dwelling Thai painter Sompong Adulsaraphan.

Leaving her education in environmental science behind, Atinuj Tantivit established Thailand’s first contemporary-art jewellery gallery in 2010. She gave it a name that reflects the gallery’s emphasis on self expression: atta means “self” in Pali. Although art jewellery can struggle for recognition among the Thai public, the practice has a passionate advocate in Tantivit, who is tireless when it comes to stimulating interest in her collection.

Although it only has a small gallery space, Jam Factory’s surroundings feature a tranquil garden area into which art fans and critics can spill out during showings before re-entering the cultural fray. The art is varied, with Thai talent and international names featuring on a regularly updated roster. During the evening the outdoor area plays host to live music and farmers’ markets, with the gallery available for free viewings.