Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
- The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Bangkok
- MOCA's Mission
- MOCA's Exhibitions
- MOCA's Collection
- MOCA's Programs and Events
- Tips for Visiting MOCA
- MOCA's Accessibility
- MOCA's Gift Shop
- MOCA's Educational Programs
- MOCA's Community Outreach
- MOCA's Membership Program
- MOCA's History
- Insider Tip
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Bangkok
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Bangkok is a leading institution dedicated to the promotion of contemporary art in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Founded in 2012 by a group of passionate art enthusiasts, MOCA has quickly established itself as a vibrant and dynamic platform for showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists from around the region. Located in the heart of Bangkok's cultural district, MOCA offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends in contemporary art and engage with the creative spirit of Thailand.
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Where is MOCA located? MOCA is located in the heart of Bangkok's cultural district, in the Wang Burapha Phirom Palace, a former royal palace built in the early 20th century. The museum is surrounded by other cultural institutions, including the National Museum and the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, making it a convenient destination for art enthusiasts.
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When was MOCA founded? MOCA was founded in 2012 by a group of art enthusiasts, including Manit Sriwanichpoom, a prominent Thai artist and collector. The museum opened its doors to the public in 2013, and has since become a leading institution for contemporary art in Thailand.
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Who founded MOCA? MOCA was founded by a group of art enthusiasts, including Manit Sriwanichpoom, a prominent Thai artist and collector. Sriwanichpoom is known for his innovative and experimental work, and he has played a key role in the development of contemporary art in Thailand.
MOCA's Mission
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Bangkok is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of contemporary art from Thailand and around the world. MOCA's mission is to provide a platform for artists to showcase their work, to educate the public about contemporary art, and to foster a greater appreciation for the role of art in society.
To achieve its mission, MOCA organizes a variety of exhibitions, programs, and events throughout the year. The museum's exhibitions feature the work of both established and emerging artists from Thailand and abroad. MOCA also hosts a number of educational programs for children and adults, including workshops, lectures, and guided tours. The museum's events include artist talks, film screenings, and live performances.
MOCA's mission is to promote contemporary art in all its forms and to make it accessible to a wide audience. The museum believes that contemporary art has the power to challenge our assumptions, expand our perspectives, and connect us with others. MOCA is committed to providing a space where people can come together to experience and learn about contemporary art, and to be inspired by its transformative power.
MOCA's Exhibitions
MOCA hosts a variety of exhibitions, ranging from solo shows by emerging artists to major retrospectives of established masters. The exhibitions change frequently, with new shows opening every few months. Some of the most popular exhibitions that MOCA has hosted in recent years include:
- "Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors" (2018)
- "Andy Warhol: From A to B and Back Again" (2019)
- "Ai Weiwei: Trace" (2020)
To learn about upcoming exhibitions at MOCA, visitors can check the museum's website or follow MOCA on social media. The museum also offers a free email newsletter that provides updates on upcoming exhibitions and events.
MOCA's Collection
MOCA's collection is diverse, ranging from traditional to contemporary art forms. It includes paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and mixed media works. The museum boasts over 800 artworks from Thai and international artists, making it one of the largest collections of contemporary art in Southeast Asia.
Some of the most notable artworks in MOCA's collection include:
- "The White Elephant" by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a large-scale painting depicting a white elephant, a symbol of Thailand's royal family.
- "The Buddha's Footprint" by Montien Boonma, a bronze sculpture of a Buddha's footprint, a symbol of Buddhism, Thailand's predominant religion.
- "The Floating World" by Rirkrit Tiravanija, a mixed media installation that explores themes of impermanence and change.
- "The Memory of Trees" by Kamin Lertchaiprasert, a series of photographs that capture the beauty and diversity of Thailand's forests.
- "The Mirror of the World" by Apichatpong Weerasethakul, a film installation that explores themes of identity, memory, and the nature of reality.
Visitors can view MOCA's collection through a variety of exhibitions, which are held throughout the year. Exhibitions are typically organized around a specific theme or artist, and they often feature new acquisitions and works from the museum's permanent collection.
MOCA's Programs and Events
MOCA offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, film screenings, and performances. These programs and events are designed to engage visitors with contemporary art and to promote a deeper understanding of the creative process.
The museum's lecture series features talks by leading contemporary artists, curators, and critics. These lectures provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the latest trends in contemporary art and to hear from the people who are shaping the field.
MOCA's workshops offer visitors the chance to learn new art-making techniques and to experiment with different materials. The workshops are led by experienced artists and are suitable for people of all skill levels.
The museum's film screenings showcase a diverse range of contemporary films, from documentaries to experimental films. The screenings are often followed by discussions with filmmakers and other experts.
MOCA's performances include music concerts, dance performances, and theater productions. The performances are often site-specific and are designed to take advantage of the museum's unique spaces.
All of MOCA's programs and events are free and open to the public. Visitors can learn about upcoming programs and events on the museum's website or by signing up for the museum's email list.
Tips for Visiting MOCA
Visiting MOCA can be a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts and those interested in learning more about contemporary art. Here are some tips to make your visit as enjoyable and informative as possible:
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Best days and times to visit: MOCA is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm. The best time to visit is during the week, when crowds are smaller. If you do visit on the weekend, try to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds.
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Admission fees: Admission to MOCA is 250 baht for adults, 150 baht for students and seniors, and free for children under
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Discounts: MOCA offers a variety of discounts for students, seniors, and members. You can also get a discount if you purchase tickets online in advance.
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Getting to MOCA: MOCA is located at 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Road, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Khet Chatuchak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10900. The easiest way to get to MOCA is by taxi or ride-sharing service. You can also take the BTS Skytrain to Mo Chit station and then take a short walk to the museum.
MOCA's Accessibility
Visiting MOCA should be enjoyable and accessible to everyone. The museum is committed to ensuring that visitors with disabilities have a positive and fulfilling experience.
MOCA is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all floors of the museum. Accessible restrooms are available on each floor, and there are several accessible parking spaces in the museum's parking lot.
To further enhance the accessibility of MOCA, the museum offers audio guides and other assistive devices for visitors with disabilities. These devices can be checked out from the museum's information desk.
Visitors with disabilities who have any questions or concerns about accessibility at MOCA can contact the museum's accessibility coordinator at (555) 555-5555 or by email at [email protected].
MOCA's Gift Shop
MOCA's inviting gift shop entices visitors with a trove of distinctive treasures inspired by the captivating art showcased within the museum's hallowed halls.
The gift shop is a haven for art enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of merchandise that celebrates the essence of contemporary art. From exquisite reproductions of artworks by renowned Thai and international artists to quirky souvenirs that capture the museum's unique spirit, there's something for every taste and budget.
Visitors can peruse a carefully curated collection of art books, showcasing the latest trends and insights from the world of contemporary art. These publications delve into the lives and works of influential artists, offering a deeper understanding of their creative processes and artistic philosophies.
MOCA's gift shop also features a range of stylish and functional items that make perfect gifts for art lovers and friends. From tote bags adorned with vibrant prints to notebooks featuring iconic artworks, these items are sure to delight and inspire.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the gift shop are always happy to assist visitors in finding the perfect memento of their visit to MOCA, whether it's a unique piece of jewelry, a collectible figurine, or a one-of-a-kind handmade craft.
With its inviting atmosphere and carefully curated selection of merchandise, MOCA's gift shop is a must-visit for anyone seeking a tangible reminder of their journey into the realm of contemporary art.
MOCA's Educational Programs
MOCA offers a variety of educational programs to students of all ages. These programs are designed to introduce students to contemporary art and to encourage them to develop their own artistic skills.
MOCA's educational programs include:
- School tours: MOCA offers guided tours of its exhibitions for school groups. Tours can be tailored to the specific needs of each group.
- Workshops: MOCA offers workshops on a variety of topics, such as painting, drawing, and sculpture. Workshops are led by experienced artists and educators.
- Summer camps: MOCA offers summer camps for children and teenagers. Camps provide students with the opportunity to explore different art forms and to create their own artworks.
- Lectures and talks: MOCA hosts lectures and talks by artists, curators, and other experts in the field of contemporary art. These events are open to the public and are a great way to learn more about contemporary art.
MOCA's educational programs are a valuable resource for students of all ages. These programs provide students with the opportunity to learn about contemporary art, to develop their own artistic skills, and to be inspired by the work of other artists.
MOCA's Community Outreach
MOCA believes in the power of art to make a positive impact in the community. The museum offers a variety of community outreach programs that aim to engage people of all ages and backgrounds with contemporary art. These programs include:
- School tours: MOCA offers free guided tours for school groups, tailored to the students' age and curriculum. The tours provide an interactive and educational experience, introducing students to the world of contemporary art.
- Family programs: MOCA hosts monthly family days, with special activities and workshops designed for families with children of all ages. These events offer a fun and interactive way for families to engage with contemporary art together.
- Art workshops: MOCA offers a variety of art workshops for people of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists. These workshops provide a hands-on opportunity to create art and learn new techniques.
- Community partnerships: MOCA partners with local community organizations to offer art programs and workshops in underserved communities. These partnerships help to bring contemporary art to people who might not otherwise have access to it.
MOCA's community outreach programs are a vital part of the museum's mission to promote contemporary art and make it accessible to everyone. These programs provide opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with art, learn new skills, and connect with their community.
MOCA's Membership Program
MOCA offers a membership program that provides a variety of benefits to its members, including:
- Free admission to MOCA's exhibitions
- Discounts on MOCA's educational programs and events
- Invitations to exclusive MOCA events
- Advance notice of upcoming exhibitions and events
- A subscription to MOCA's quarterly magazine
- A 10% discount on purchases from MOCA's gift shop
There are three different levels of membership at MOCA:
- Individual: 1,500 THB per year
- Family: 2,500 THB per year
- Student: 750 THB per year
To become a member of MOCA, visitors can sign up online or at the MOCA admissions desk.
MOCA's History
MOCA was founded in 2012 by a group of Thai artists and art collectors who wanted to create a space to showcase contemporary art from Thailand and around the world. The museum opened its doors to the public in 2013 and has since become one of the leading contemporary art museums in Southeast Asia.
In its early years, MOCA focused on exhibiting the work of emerging Thai artists. However, over time, the museum has expanded its scope to include international artists as well. MOCA now hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, from solo shows by individual artists to group exhibitions featuring the work of multiple artists.
MOCA has also evolved in terms of its educational and outreach programs. The museum now offers a variety of educational programs for students of all ages, as well as community outreach programs that bring art to underserved communities.
Today, MOCA is a thriving contemporary art museum that plays an important role in the cultural landscape of Bangkok. The museum is committed to promoting contemporary art and making it accessible to everyone.
Insider Tip
There is an insider tip to get the most out of your visit to MOCA. Begin your exploration by heading to the museum's rooftop terrace. From this vantage point, you can savor a breathtaking panoramic vista of Bangkok's cityscape, with its iconic landmarks and vibrant energy. As you continue your journey through MOCA's galleries, you'll discover a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed by most visitors – the sculpture garden. This serene oasis, nestled amidst the bustling city, offers a tranquil respite for contemplation and reflection, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the art and its profound messages.
To avoid the throngs of visitors and relish a more intimate experience, plan your visit to MOCA during the early morning hours or on weekdays. This will afford you the opportunity to leisurely peruse the galleries without the hustle and bustle of large crowds, enabling you to fully appreciate the depth and nuance of the artworks on display.
