A brainchild of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Ministry of Culture’s Office of Contemporary Art and Culture and The Art Market Artists Society, the Bangkok Art Market is held in front of the highly-anticipated Bangkok Art and Culture Center (Pathumwan intersection, BTS National Stadium) every Fri-Sun, 4-9pm, through Sep 28.

The Art Market project first started in 2004 on Chao Fah Road. “We wanted the art market to serve as a platform for local artists to showcase their work. The feedback has been positive so we decided to join hands with the BMA to arrange another art market at the BACC before it is officially launched in September,” says cultural officer Boonseup Klippeng of the BMA Contemporary Art and Culture office.

On our last visit, the Bangkok Art Market was far from happening as there were more artists than visitors. But the organizers still have high hopes of attracting more people to the art space. “From paintings to jewelry and photography, we have around 50 well-established artists taking turns exhibiting their works every week. You can also have your portrait sketched in 15 minutes or shop for some handmade products from students,” says Boonseup. “On stage, there are various performances from miming to traditional Thai dancing.”

Looking for a free space to display your works? You can easily bring your resume and portfolio and fill in an application at the registration booth at the front of the art market. If your work passes the muster, the organizers will soon get back to you. “Creativity is what we are looking for,” hints Boonseup.

You can also check out the original art market at the National Gallery every weekend, 9am-4:30pm. For more information, contact the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture (02-422-8828/9, www.ocac.go.th).