DK Travel : Bangkok : Museums & Galleries

H Gallery

A new gallery in a lovely colonial building on the backstreets of Silom Road, H Gallery mainly exhibits abstract works by contemporary Asian artists in a variety of media. Some works are quite innovative, such as the rattan and wire sculptures by Cambodian artist Sopheap Pich.
Jamjuree Gallery

The second gallery at Chulalongkorn University is a two-story venue that showcases emerging artists, including students of the university’s Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, as well as established Thai artists and occasionally foreign artists. The gallery is an easy walk from Siam Square shopping district.
Museum of Forensic Medicine

This anomalous collection of skulls, pickled body parts, and murder weapons inside the Siriraj Hospital (see Siriraj Hospital Museums ) is intended to educate rather than shock. Not for the squeamish, its most famous exhibit is the preserved corpse of Si Ouey, a serial killer.
National Gallery

Both traditional and contemporary Thai art are featured at this gallery. Temple banners are displayed in the section upstairs. An art market is organized in the courtyard each weekend.
National Museum

An accurate overview of the evolution of Thai culture is represented in the National Museum through dioramas in the first hall, along with exquisite Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Rattanakosin, and Lanna artifacts in other galleries. Don’t miss the Ramkhamhaeng inscription, the Royal Funeral Chariots Gallery, and the Buddhaisawan Chapel.
Royal Barge Museum

Housed in a dry-dock warehouse, this museum features eight gleaming barges, each nearly 165 ft (50 m) long, that are used only for special royal events. The biggest and most important barge, Suphannahongse, carries the king himself (see Royal Barge Museum ).
Suan Pakkad

A compound of traditional Thai houses,Suan Pakkad is an excellent example of Thai architecture. The houses contain antique paintings, carvings, and a stunning display of masks used in khon (masked theater).
Thavibu Gallery

One of Bangkok’s most impressive private galleries, Thavibu gets its name from the initial letters of Thailand, Vietnam, and Burma, the sources of most of its art. It promotes young artists who have a strong message. As well as the permanent collection, there are rotating exhibitions.
The Art Center

One of two galleries located on the campus grounds near Siam Square at Bangkok’s prestigious Chulalongkorn University, The Art Center features work by professors from the university as well as by established Thai and international artists. The gallery is known for its experimental approach and interactive installations.
The Queen’s Gallery

Established in 2003 at the request of Queen Sirikit, this gallery is set in a five-story building and occupies a massive 39,825 sq ft (3,700 sq m) of exhibition space. The Queen wanted to showcase leading examples of Thai visual art. The gallery’s shop stocks an interesting range of glossy art books and T-shirts featuring contemporary art.