The concept: This new gallery nestled in a quiet sub soi in Sukhumvit Soi 67 is the brainchild of controversial social activist-cum-artists Vasan Sitthiket and Wannaphon “Sai” Chimbangchong, alongside curator Bee Jiratti Kuttanam. As its name asserts, Rebel Art Space is not just about selling canvases but also aims to serve as a platform for artists and a place to exchange ideas through talks and happenings. In addition, it serves as an art archive for Vasan’s works, many of which were banned and never exhibited. 

The décor: This venue is also the home of Jiratti and the studio of Vasan, and you’ll see a display of their own protest paraphernalia, such as megaphones and shields, strewn about. On the first floor is the main exhibition room with high ceilings, white walls and a few seats. The second floor and rooftop are more raw, with concrete floor painted gray and Vasan’s permanent collection. The outdoor space on the rooftop has a view of the city and will soon host film screenings, poetry readings and the likes. 

Now: Narin Klung, Vasan's series of acrylic paintings of the witty civil servant who accused Kind Rama VII of killing a fish. He was the first Thai to be branded a rebel.

In the future: Five to six exhibitions of a similarly defiant essence per year, with the next one this Feb 14 being Mongkol Somrot by two artists of the same first name, Mongkol Utok and Mongkol Plienbangchang.