PERMANENT EXHIBITION

ARS LONGA VITA BREVIS

MOCA BANGKOK is a 20,000-square-meter private art museum renowned for its striking architecture and expansive collection of over a thousand works by both Thai and international artists. Located near Don Mueang Airport, the museum offers a unique perspective on Thai culture and identity through the private collection of Boonchai Bencharongkul. The artworks reflect the evolution of Thai contemporary art, highlighting the influence of Western styles and techniques. MOCA BANGKOK stands as a powerful tribute to Thai creativity, beliefs, and artistic expression.

MOCA BANGKOK is itself an impressive artistic creation constructed to provide the most practical and effective premises and space, providing ease of access, ideal ambience and complementary facilities that combine to make for a most pleasurable experience, enhancing the appreciation of the exhibits to the maximum. The Museum exceeds the brief for practicality and purpose, and indeed it is memorable and modernistically imposing for all the right reasons.

The design of MOCA BANGKOK provides easy access for the disabled plus comfort and refreshment facilities to maximize the quality of the experience during time spent within the building. The overall ambience is far removed from the hustle and bustle of the world outside. The visitor will be afforded the conditions and environment that contribute to calm contemplation and absorption free from unwanted distractions or influences.

This museum can serve as an inspiration to art students, professors, emerging artists, connoisseurs, tourists, and even those who are just beginning to appreciate Thai art.

  • G FLOOR
  • 2nd FLOOR
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  • 4th FLOOR
  • 5th FLOOR

 

Upon arrival, visitors will be welcomed by “Happiness,” a beautiful landmark that has stood the test of time, a sculpture by Nonthivathn Chandhanaphalin, National Artist in Visual Arts (Sculpture), 2006.

During the daytime, especially around midday, you can witness the beauty of natural light streaming in from the ceiling. A delicate jasmine pattern is cast onto the floor, and depending on the intensity and angle of the sunlight each day, the play of light creates a uniquely elegant atmosphere.

At the center of the atrium stands a statue of Professor Silpa Bhirasri, formerly known as Corrado Feroci. An Italian sculptor, he is celebrated as the "Father of Thai Modern Art" and played a pivotal role in shaping the development of modern art in Thailand.

 

 

 

On the second floor, MOCA BANGKOK primarily focuses on the history of “Suvarnabhumi,” exploring the heritage of Thailand and the broader Southeast Asian region dating back to over 1000 BCE. The exhibits feature Khon masks, shadow puppets from various Southeast Asian countries, artworks related to the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics, and much more.

 

 

 

On the third floor, you'll discover themes of imagination and fantasy. The Bloom Room is an art gallery designed to inspire positive energy through artworks influenced by the beauty of nature. The room is painted a deep, calming blue to enhance the experience.

We feature a large collection of works by Sompong Adulyasaraphan, whose art focuses on nature and presents the world through a surrealist lens. The gallery also showcases many pieces by Prateep Kochabua, a highly respected Thai surrealist artist known for his distinctive style.

 

 

 

The fourth floor features works by one of Thailand’s most renowned national artists, Thawan Duchanee.. There is also a dedicated room honoring several Thai national artists, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Another highlight on this floor is The Three Kingdoms Heaven, Middle Earth, and Hell painted by Sompop Butarad, Panya Wijinthanasan, and Prateep Kochabua. This collaborative work presents a powerful interpretation of spiritual and earthly realms through surrealist and symbolic art.

 

 

On the way from the 4th to the 5th floor, time seems to slow. The hum of the city fades behind thick concrete walls, replaced by the soft hush of footsteps and distant whispers of art. Light spills gently from above, casting long shadows that dance with each step.

Between floors, one is suspended not just physically, but emotionally, lingering in the quiet space between understanding and discovery.

Finally, the fifth floor features a selection of international artworks and photographs by various artists. The highlight is a collection of paintings from the Romantic period during the reign of Queen Victoria, offering a glimpse into Western art from over two centuries ago. These works are displayed in the "Richard Green" room, named after the renowned London gallery from which the pieces were acquired.