ICONSIAM: A beacon for Thai art and culture on the world stage
The shopping destination is taking a bold step to elevate Thailand’s art and culture.
ICONSIAM, the renowned landmark gracing the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, is taking a bold step to elevate the nation's art and culture to new heights.
Through a strategic partnership with a distinguished roster of organizations, ICONSIAM is transforming itself into a world-class art center, offering a year-round calendar of exhibitions, events, and experiences designed to enthrall art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
At the heart of ICONSIAM's vision lies the unwavering commitment to embracing Thai soft power—the driving force of the country’s creative economy. This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the project, from the meticulously crafted interiors showcasing exquisite Thai design elements to the incorporation of works by celebrated Thai artists alongside international masters. This dedication has positioned ICONSIAM not just as a premier shopping destination, but also as a cultural icon, recognized by tourists worldwide.
A platform for artistic expression
The newly launched ICONSIAM ART & CULTURE serves as a cornerstone of this initiative. This dedicated space provides a platform for Thai and international artists to showcase their talents. Visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of artistic expressions, from captivating contemporary pieces to enduring traditional crafts.
2024 promises to be a banner year for art at ICONSIAM. Partnering with the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture, ICONSIAM will host the highly anticipated ninth edition of the Bangkok Art Festival 2024. Held between March 6 and 10 at the River Park, this event will provide a platform for children, young adults, and the general public to engage with contemporary art.
Later in the year, the Winter Art Fair Festival will grace the River Park in November. This grand art fair will showcase and offer a vast selection of artworks from a myriad of talented creators. Here, art lovers can indulge in collecting exquisite pieces or simply revel in the beauty and artistry on display, all against the picturesque backdrop of the Chao Phraya River.
From the world to Thailand
ICONSIAM is committed to presenting not just Thai art, but also international artistic treasures. Live Impact Events joins forces with ICONSIAM to bring a world premiere to Thai audiences: “Da Vinci Alive Bangkok”, an immersive digital art exhibition. Opening its doors on March 15 and running until July 31, this captivating display will showcase the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, allowing visitors to step into the world of this Renaissance polymath. This follows the immense success of previous collaborations, such as “Van Gogh Alive Bangkok” and “Monet & Friends Alive Bangkok”, which not only enthralled art lovers but also served as a magnet for tourists, boosting the city's cultural tourism sector.
Thai Craft Studio, another esteemed partner, brings its expertise to ICONSIAM. Their captivating exhibition, "Continuing the Legacy: The Year of the Dragon in Two Lands," offers a unique perspective, blending Thai and Chinese cultural narratives. This exquisite display exemplifies the enduring legacy of Thai craftsmanship, passed down through generations of skilled artisans. Throughout the year, Thai Craft Studio will curate a series of exhibitions showcasing the artistry and heritage of Thai crafts, ensuring that these time-honored traditions are preserved and experienced by a wider audience.
Hypecartel adds another dimension to the artistic landscape at ICONSIAM with their innovative concept, “Art Scape”. This experiential event fuses art exhibitions with delectable food and captivating music, creating a vibrant and dynamic space where visitors can lose themselves in a multi-sensory exploration of creativity. Held on the stunning Atmosphere Terrace, “Art Scape” features a diverse range of artistic expressions, including paintings, sculptures, collectible toys, and even NFTs, all displayed in a rotating lineup, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience each month.
The Faculty of Painting, Sculpture and Graphic Arts Alumni Association of Silpakorn University joins hands with ICONSIAM to present a remarkable exhibition titled "Across the Centuries Visual Arts 2024." This landmark event showcases over 100 artworks by Thailand's most esteemed alumni, spanning generations. Here, visitors can embark on a historical journey through Thai art, encountering the works of "Master Teachers" who laid the foundation for contemporary artistic expression, alongside established mid-career artists and the fresh perspectives of the 21st century's emerging talents. This unparalleled exhibition, held at the ICONLUXE Pop Up Space, provides a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of Thai art across the decades.
A collaborative spirit
ICONSIAM's commitment to artistic expression extends beyond the aforementioned partnerships. The venue collaborates with a multitude of organizations throughout the year. This includes "tokidoki ICONIC Bangkok Experience”, showcasing the creative genius of Simone Legno. “CARVENTURE”, co-organized with ARTVENTURE, presents a unique exhibition pairing classic cars with beloved character art toys by prominent Thai artists.
Additionally, ICONSIAM consistently features works by established and up-and-coming Thai artists, including the legendary Assistant Professor Sittichai Pratchayaratikun and new-generation talents like Peachful, Kiwtum, Nutped, Toddyinthemood, and Plulalin. The inclusion of artworks by students from Poh-Chang Academy of Arts and the Faculty of Painting, Sculpture, and Graphic Arts of Silpakorn University further underscores ICONSIAM's dedication to nurturing the artistic talent pipeline.
ICONSIAM's dedication to art and culture transcends mere exhibition. It fosters a vibrant artistic community, offering a platform for creative expression, artistic appreciation, and cultural exchange. This commitment extends beyond its walls, serving as a beacon for Thai art on the global stage and attracting visitors to experience the captivating world of Thai artistry firsthand.
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