Discover Thai Art Studios: Phuket Art Galleries and Museums

In addition to beautiful beaches and booming nightclubs, Phuket is home to unique Thai art. Therefore, when art lovers find themselves on this side of the tropical paradise, they cannot afford to miss the friendly Phuket art galleries and photos.

 In this article, we will highlight various museums and galleries in Phuket to enlighten you about Thai art, from traditional painting and sculpture to modern pieces.

READ ALSO: Best Hidden Gems In Phuket: Unexpected Attractions In Thailand

Art Galleries in Phuket

There are several art galleries in Phuket that exhibit Thai art in various forms, both the traditional and the modern, helping anyone interested in exploring the Thai art scene.

Phuket Art Village, Rawai Area

The Phuket Art Village is one of the most famous galleries on the island. This art space is located in the Rawai area and encompasses a cluster of pint-sized galleries managed by artists where budding artists present their productions. This is quite special compared to other villages, where tourists can see the artwork, talk to the artists, and practically see them in the process of creating it.

Soul of Asia Gallery, Surin Area

The other significant gallery is the Soul of Asia Gallery in the Surin area. This gallery is noteworthy for its abundance of Asian artworks and pieces originating from Thailand, China, and India. Soul of Asia Gallery is especially famous for its collection of antique pieces, accessories, and modern Thai paintings that present the exuberant Thai spirit and traditions. If you’re a collector or an art lover, the gallery has something to suit your taste from the array of art pieces.

Phuket 346 Gallery, Phuket Old Town

The Phuket 346 Gallery in the Old Town is another beauty to consider. This gallery showcases contemporary Thai art, with photography and mixed media as the major themes. The gallery has a simple décor and layout and is intended to allow visitors to fully appreciate the talent and work of the local artists.

Museums Showcasing Thai Art

Some of the art museums in Phuket give a better understanding of Thai art and the cultural background of the pieces; thus, they are must-visit institutions for art lovers.

The Phuket Thai Hua Museum

The Phuket Thai Hua Museum is among the largest museums in Phuket and occupies a special place in representing the Thai history of the island. Located in a building that used to be a Chinese school, the museum presents the history of the Chinese-Thai community in Phuket, with special emphasis on the Sinophile impact on Thai art. The museum contains traditional Thai paintings, pottery, and sculptures giving visitors a broad idea of art in Phuket.

Thalang National Museum

Another important museum is the Thalang National Museum, which represents the history of the island and the Andaman area. This museum is unique for its display of unparalleled relics from the Kingdom of Srivijaya, which features delicately carved religious art depicting the supernatural theme of Thai art. The Thalang National Museum also presents other artifacts connected with traditional Thai crafts, including weaving and pottery.

The Peranakan Phuket Museum

The Peranakan Phuket Museum is one of several recommendations for today’s Thai art lovers. Although it focuses on the ethnicity of Phuket’s Peranakan, the museum also contains a section of contemporary Thai art that demonstrates an interactive interface between the two ethnicities. These include paintings, sculptures, and multi-media installations, whereby culture, tradition, and modernity form the major focus of Thai society.

Local Markets with Thai Art

Phuket local markets are not only a place for purchasing goods: they are also rich in art and entertainment, which can help visitors unveil the true experience of Thai art.

Phuket Weekend Market

Phuket Weekend Market or Naka Market sells local handicrafts, paintings, and sculptures, making it a wonderful place to visit. The market has a great atmosphere, with the stalls and food displayed so that customers can shop around. Visitors will enjoy an array of local products, ranging from Thai paintings and carved wooden products to clothes and jewelry.

Phuket Walking Street Market

Another place where shopping is pleasant is the Phuket Walking Street Market, which occurs in Old Phuket Town every Sunday. This market is located along Thalang Road and has a rather adorable appeal due to the colonial architectural designs. The market contains shops selling artwork and artifacts, stunning paintings on the ceramics, and entrancing souvenirs. It is an excellent opportunity to talk to the artists, learn about their work, and order a portrait.

The Cherngtalay Sunday Market

If you are keen on having a pretty unconventional setting that is less touristy, the Cherngtalay Sunday Market is a great choice. This market is slightly off the Laguna Phuket area, attracting fewer visitors than the other popular markets, making it a perfect place for art enthusiasts. Here, you will be able to purchase extraordinary works of art, such as hand-carved wooden sculptures and contemporary paintings done by local artists. It is also a perfect area to hone your bartering abilities and discover unique art pieces for a fair price.

Art Class with Afternoon Tea in Phuket

Pamper yourself creatively and leisurely with an art class in Phuket that is best paired with a splendid high tea. Learn traditional Thai painting in a natural environment or get a taste of modern Thai art for beginners and professionals. 

In Phuket, you can take a 3-hour Mandala art class, surfing lesson, beach yoga,  a 2-hour hapa zome workshop, or a Thai flower garland workshop.

Following the creative session, enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea that comprises pastries, sandwiches, and great tea, all while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding Phuket countryside or sea. It is one of the best ways to incorporate culture, creativity, and recreational time during your stay in Phuket.

How Travelers Can purchase Authentic Thai Art

Purchasing Thai artworks is entertaining yet challenging; thus, you need to be aware of fundamental information before investing in such works. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

• Assess the Art: Take some time to review and look closely at the booty before parting with your money. Find out about the brushwork in paintings, the detailed formations of sculpture carvings and engravings, and other aspects of art. A true Thai artwork is known to incorporate as much detail as possible and uses techniques that are traditional to the region.
• Understand the Pricing: As with much of Thai art, the prices can fluctuate greatly depending upon the individual artist, the materials used, and how rare the specific piece is. This is why you should do some research, either as the gallery or the market vendor, about the history of the artist and the story behind the artwork. Knowing this can help you get a more accurate estimation of its worth.
• Negotiate Wisely: When buying art at a market, shop around and see if the price can be haggled down. Haggling is typical in Thailand, and many sellers will not consider any value offered as the final price. But it must be done in a dignified and honorable spirit. You begin by bidding the amount you are willing to pay minus a small margin, ready to meet the seller halfway.
• Verify Authenticity: When acquiring costly artwork, especially if it is conventional, dated, or by a famous artist, it is necessary to request the papers that establish its authenticity. This information should be available from galleries and other reputable vendors selling the items.
• Consider Shipping Options: To ensure the art piece you want to buy is delivered safely to your home, especially if it is huge or delicate, you need to organize shipping. Many galleries offer a shipping service or provide the contact information of reliable shipping companies. Make sure you have insured the artwork during transport to safeguard the piece. 

By adhering to these steps, you’re assured of purchasing genuine Thai art that will be an asset to your collection.

Conclusion

As a flourishing metropolis well-equipped with a vibrant arts scene, Phuket is a haven for art enthusiasts and other tourists who wish to marvel at genuine Thai art. Whether you are a bibliophile, a tourist, or an art lover, the art on the island interestingly gives you a glimpse of the art in Thailand. So do not let this opportunity slip off your fingers to be a part of this vibrant art culture of Phuket and take home a piece of this lovely place.

If you’re visiting Phuket to explore Thai art, local markets, or beaches, including Patong, Soi Kaew, and Mai Khao, Sarayah Phuket villas offer better accommodation deals than most hotels and resorts in Phuket. Our private pool villa (deluxe 2-bedroom villa) and the luxury 4-bedroom villa ensure we cater to all types of travelers, whether you’re honeymooners, a family on vacation, or a business group.