Bangkok’s art scene is buzzing with energy as Nova Contemporary opens the doors to its brand-new gallery space in the lively Bang Rak neighborhood.
The highly anticipated relaunch kicked off yesterday with Affinities, an exhibition running from April 26 to July 5, featuring works by 28 contemporary Thai artists in collaboration with Bangkok CityCity Gallery.
This fresh chapter for Nova comes at an exciting moment: Thailand’s art market is steadily gaining momentum.
The market is definitely expanding, even if it’s happening gradually
says gallery founder Sutima Sucharitakul.
In recent years, Thailand has seen noticeable growth in both local collectors and international attention. Despite global slowdowns, Sucharitakul notes that the Thai scene is thriving as a “smaller, emerging” market that’s winning hearts — especially among younger collectors.
Although Thailand has a rich artistic heritage, contemporary art has been slower to capture the local audience’s imagination. That’s changing now. Collectors are becoming more adventurous, exploring new regions, mediums, and practices they hadn’t previously considered.
“We’re seeing a real cross-generational shift,” Sucharitakul explains. “More seasoned collectors are buying not just Modern art but also video works, while younger collectors are building new collections with a strong interest in local practices.”
Nova Contemporary: A New Home with a Fresh Spirit
Nova Contemporary’s move was a natural evolution. After eight years in Lumpini, the gallery’s lease expired — opening the door to a relocation. Bang Rak, with its youthful energy, proximity to universities, and easy public transport links, felt like the perfect next step.
“Bang Rak offers a real community feel,” says Sucharitakul. “It’s a shorter history compared to other cities, but the growth and spirit here are unmistakable.”
The new group show Affinities showcases the diversity and depth of Thai contemporary art. Notably, it includes pieces from Those Dying Wishing To Stay, Those Living Preparing To Leave — the Thai Pavilion exhibition from the 2005 Venice Biennale, created by Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook and Montien Boonma. Other key artists include Korakrit Arunanondchai, Mit Jai Inn, and Arin Rungjang, each exploring narratives deeply tied to Thailand’s cultural landscape.
“There’s a real spirit of creating here,” says Sucharitakul. “So many incredible artists are producing and engaging with one another.”
Building Momentum in Bangkok’s Art Scene
Since opening in 2017, Nova Contemporary has built a strong reputation across Southeast Asia, representing artists like Pam Virada, Prae Pupityastaporn, and Myanmar’s Moe Satt and Sawangwongse Yawnghwe. Alongside Nova, Bangkok CityCity Gallery has also been a driving force, supporting talents such as Orawan Arunrak and Miti Ruangkritya, and establishing events like the Bangkok Art Book Fair and Open Field.
Bangkok’s art landscape is expanding fast — despite political tensions that continue to ripple through Thailand. While the monarchy-backed government has clamped down on democratic movements, Nova’s programming has always maintained an “anthropological perspective,” reflecting and reimagining the country’s turbulent history through contemporary art.
“Many of our artists engage with Thailand’s political past and present,” Sucharitakul points out. “They incorporate these narratives into their practices in ways that spark critical reflection.”
Even with rising tourism levels, boosting the art market remains a challenge. “Tourism is booming again, but serious art sales still depend on deep engagement,” she says. “We’re working hard to introduce Thai contemporary art to a broader global audience.”
A Thriving Future for Art in Thailand
Nova’s reopening is just one part of a bigger picture. New spaces like the Khao Yai Art Forest and Bangkok Kunsthalle are redefining Thailand’s contemporary art landscape. Later this year, the Thailand Biennale will take place in Phuket, while the highly anticipated Dib Bangkok private museum is set to open in December — designed by world-class architects and home to a breathtaking collection, including works by Nova artists Kawita Vatanajyankur and Prae Pupityastaporn.
“All these projects complement each other beautifully,” says Sucharitakul. “It feels like everything is finally coming together for Bangkok and for Thailand. It’s a very hopeful moment.”