Art Trek

New spaces and events to explore on Southeast Asia’s creative frontier

Words: Sarita Urupongsa

New art venues opening across Southeast Asia are inviting visitors to discover fresh worlds of creativity and innovation. with immersive installations, thought-provoking exhibitions, and dynamic atmospheres, these venues are shaping the future of art. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a first-time visitor, they offer something for everyone, pushing boundaries and opening minds to new perspectives.

Creative Samui

Founded in Los Angeles in 2002, the Lucie Foundation is committed to supporting photographers through a year-round programme of diverse events. Through exhibitions, workshops, and awards, the foundation’s global network of House of Lucie cultural hubs has made photography and visual storytelling more accessible worldwide.

In line with this mission, House of Lucie decided to open its latest branch on the stunning Thai island of Koh Samui. This new cultural landmark also houses the Samui Art Center, a vibrant space bringing world-class art programmes to the local community. Offering workshops in photography, painting, sculpture, ceramics, and jewellery-making, the centre is a creative haven for both residents and visitors to the island.

In addition to workshops, the Samui Art Center hosts exhibitions, lectures, and interactive events, solidifying Samui’s reputation as a hub for culture and creativity while also fostering artistic development and collaboration in the region.

2/23 Proonamueang Road, Maret, Samui, Surat Thani; www.houseoflucie.org

Photos: House of Lucie

Unapologetic Identity

Jing Jai Gallery’s eye-popping “We Are Wearing Out Our Own Skin” features photography, painting, film, and performance that explore women’s lived experience as global citizens. Three emerging female artists challenge the myth of a monolithic group identity, embracing bold individualism and playful post-feminism.

The exhibition celebrates diversity to foster solidarity across all genders, celebrating shared struggles, resilience, and inherent worth. The post-feminist theme questions patriarchal structures and gender binaries while advocating for a more fluid, inclusive understanding of identity. This exhibition encourages discussion on what happens when we embrace and celebrate authenticity, pushing beyond traditional feminism to create more inclusive possibilities.

Jing Jai Gallery serves as a dynamic hub for the growth and promotion of art in Chiang Mai and beyond. Located within the vibrant Jing Jai Market, it offers a platform for both local and international artists to display their work through thoughtfully curated exhibitions. Known for its engaging and thought-provoking programming, the gallery features rotating exhibitions that explore a variety of compelling themes.

This June, visitors can look forward to a sneak peek at Niwat Manatpiyalert’s solo exhibition, focused on raising awareness of the interconnectedness of nature and reality. Stay tuned for this exciting showcase!

Until May 18; 46 Atsadathon Road, Pa Ton, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai; www.jingjaigallery.com

Photos: Jing Jai Gallery

Hop’s Big Leap

HOP (Hub of Photography) has taken a big leap forward with the launch of the HOP Photo Gallery, Thailand’s largest showcase of the photographic arts. The gallery has partnered with Whoop! to create a stunning new exhibition space, continuing HOP’s mission to support Thai and international photographers, along with student shutterbugs.

In addition to the gallery, the HOP Club area has been transformed into a vibrant community space for photography enthusiasts to share ideas. Members can host workshops, exhibitions, and seminars, fostering creativity and inspiration. HOP is Thailand’s first all-in-one photography centre, providing a unique space for both professionals and amateurs to explore the art of photography.

HOP Photo Gallery and HOP Club MMAD,
2nd floor, MunMun Srinakarin, Seacon Square,
55 Srinagarindra Road, Bangkok;
www.facebook.com/hubofphotographybangkok

Photos: HOP Photo Gallery

Unmask the Culprit

What could be more thrilling than solving a murder mystery through an interactive adventure, all while immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Singapore? National Gallery Singapore has partnered with HIDDEN, a leader in immersive experiences, to launch FRAMED: A Murder Mystery in National Gallery Singapore. In this AI chatbot-based game, players take on the role of someone falsely accused of a crime who must work to clear their name.

Guided by the chatbot “Void Deck Cat”, they must uncover clues and solve puzzles to unravel the mystery. The clues are cleverly hidden within the DBS Singapore Gallery, UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, and ArchiGallery, offering a fun and engaging way to explore the art and culture at the heart of Singapore’s heritage. Best of all, the game can be played directly on your devices, with no need to download additional apps. FRAMED is perfect for both individuals and groups, ensuring an exciting and interactive experience for everyone.

1 St Andrew’s Road #01-01, Singapore; www.nationalgallery.sg

Photos: National Gallery Singapore