Past and future: 200 Years of Thai Modern Art

Calling all art lovers! If you have a curious mind and a few hours to spare, head to the National Gallery in Bangkok to view the “200 Years Journey Through Thai Modern Art History” exhibition.

This captivating show takes you on a chronological tour through two centuries of Thailand’s artistic evolution, showcasing over 100 rare and groundbreaking artworks from the reign of King Rama IV (1804-1868) to the vibrant art scene of today.

The driving force behind this exhibition are collectors Kornkamol and Piriya Vachajitpan, founders of The Art Auction Center.

Their carefully curated collection aims to not only share their love for Thai art but also spark appreciation for both established and emerging Thai talents.

They envision this exhibition as a global ambassador, traveling the world and educating audiences about the rich history of Thai art.

“We want our collection to narrate the dawn of modern Thai art around 200 years ago. Artworks remain alive after they are viewed by people.

Kornkamol and I hope to stage the exhibition in galleries around the world. We recommend those who cherish Thai art to visit the exhibition now, as we have no idea when we will have the opportunity again,” said Piriya.

Feast for the senses

Spanning two centuries, the exhibition caters to a wide range of artistic preferences. Immerse yourself in historical pieces like those by Khrua In Khong, the legendary Thai artist who pioneered the use of the Western-style perspective during King Rama IV’s reign.

Marvel at the artistry of Italian artist Galileo Chini, commissioned by King Rama V to create the breathtaking dome of the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall.

Witness Thawan Duchanee’s colourful painting created shortly after his graduation that is rarely seen by art lovers. Admire the delicate touch of Misiem Yipintsoi, Thailand’s first prominent female artist.

And of course, discover the works of prominent contemporary artists like Alex Face (Patcharapol Tangruen), Gongkan (Kantapon Metheekul), and Molly-Nisa Srikumdee, who have propelled Thai art onto the international stage.

The exhibition is a magnificent narrative woven together from more than 100 exquisite pieces. It unites renowned Thai artists, many showcasing works never before displayed together, offering a truly unique perspective on Thai art history.

Get up close and personal with the paintings and sculptures to fully appreciate the artistry on display. Wander through the two-floor exhibition, absorbing the evolution of Thai art from the Colonial era to the present day.

Gems under the spotlight

Among the hundreds of artworks, these exceptional pieces must not be missed.

1 Khrua In Khong’s painting

Growing up close to temples, Khrua In Khong (Khrua means a senior and knowledgeable monk) developed an interest in art as a young boy. Initially, he practiced traditional Thai art with flat, color-washed images.

Later, he used muted tones to create atmosphere, meticulously painting characters and Western-style buildings, except for the Siamese flag with a white elephant on a red background.

His paintings are considered the first perspective works in Thai art history.

2 “Narai Bantomsin” by Phra Dhava Bhinimmit (Chine Tiemsilapachai)

A prominent court artist since King Rama V’s reign and an art teacher to King Rama VIII and King Rama IX, this painting created in 1934 depicts Narayana reclining with Brahma emerging from his navel, accompanied by Lakshmi on the back of Ananta, amidst the Ocean of Milk.

***Narai Bantomsin” by PChine Tiemsilapachai (on the right)***

It shows the blending of Western art principles with traditional Thai forms.

3 Galileo Chini

Favored by King Rama V, Italian artist Galileo Chini was invited to work for the royal court during King Rama VI’s reign. Skilled in various mediums, he combines Western and Thai angels, likely for building decoration, in this artwork. Besides his dome painting at the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, Chini created several oils on canvas.

4 “Girl with Red Book” by Misiem Yipintsoi

Thailand’s first prominent female artist created this oil painting around the 1960s. It depicts a young girl in a white dress reading a red book, surrounded by blooming flowers.

The loose brushstrokes create a lively scene, with harmonious colors blending her figure with the foliage, highlighting her eyes, hair, and the book.

***Girl with Red Book” by Misiem Yipintsoi***

5 “Despair Eclipse of Intellect” by Thawan Duchanee

This massive highlight by Thawan Duchanee features a black canvas with thick strokes of oil paint. The eerie atmosphere under a darkened sun shows a two-headed giant rooster: one head crowing loudly, symbolizing awakening, and the other pecking at people lying in despair with their eyes and ears covered.

6 “Phra Sang Thong and Nang Rojana” by National Artist Chakrabhand Posayakrit

Created in 1982 using oil on canvas, this painting depicts Phra Sang Thong and Nang Rotjana with a forest hut backdrop.

The warm color scheme and detailed costumes blend anatomical realism and Western art principles with the artist’s delicate beauty.

7 “Memory House” by Alex Face (Patcharapol Tangruen)

“Memory House” is a famous piece featuring a three-eyed child character in a rabbit costume, inspired by the artist’s daughter Mardi.

This giant artwork, first exhibited at the 2020 Bangkok Art Biennale, represents Alex Face’s childhood memories and human impacts on the Chao Phraya River, and is displayed outdoors near the gallery entrance.

8 “Cry Me A River” by Molly-Nisa Srikumdee

Molly-Nisa Srikumdee’s Crybaby became a sensation in the online art toy market, making her internationally acclaimed. Her first exhibition in Thailand in mid-2022 was a great success.

This massive installation shows the head, arms, and legs emerging from the water and is displayed in the gallery’s backyard.