Art Republic Representing Thai Artists

This was the website of the Art Republic, a contemporary art gallery representing Thai art from both up-and-coming young artists and established artists.
The content is from the site's 2007 - 2012 archived pages.

ART REPUBLIC,3rd Floor, Peninsula Plaza,
153 Rajadamri Rd., Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330

As the webmaster for ArtRepublicBKK.com, I’ve always taken pride in representing a gallery that celebrates both the heritage and forward momentum of Thai contemporary art. From emerging voices to established names, the exhibitions we’ve showcased—like Kade Javanalikikorn’s introspective “After Afterall” or Anne Leveque’s striking abstractions—have spoken volumes about time, culture, and the human experience.

But shortly after we launched the site, I was alarmed to see bizarre Google search results showing waste disposal services ranking above us for searches like “art republic bkk.” Our #1 position was gone, replaced by links completely irrelevant to art—or Bangkok. I reported the issue through Google’s forums, but as many others in this space know, their responsiveness left much to be desired. Several reputation management firms offered solutions to delete the problem results, but their fees were beyond what our budget could absorb.

Miraculously, the problem seemed to self-correct after a couple of weeks, though I can’t say for sure why. I only know that some potential damage was done to our credibility in that window. Still, I’m incredibly proud of the work we've done to digitally archive and highlight Thai artists' talent and depth. Art deserves better visibility than what automated systems sometimes allow. Regulate Google now—because one algorithmic hiccup shouldn't bury a legacy of creativity. Dennis Dollar

Press Release From Art Republic

Art Republic would like to invite art enthusiasts to our upcoming solo exhibition by Kade Javanalikikorn
During 9th June until 16th July 2011, entitled "AFTER AFTERALL"

EXHIBITION DETAILS

Exhibition by :
Kade Javanalikikorn

Exhibition title:
AFTER AFTERALL

Location:
ART REPUBLIC, 3rd Floor, Peninsula Plaza,
153 Rajadamri Rd., Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330
Tel. 02- 652-1801

Exhibition Period:
9th June until 16th July 2011
Tuesdays - Saturdays from 11.00 - 19.00
Closed Sundays and Monday

We see nature as a sort of sanctuary, a halfway house for passing drifters.
People are so busy nowadays that we don’t think about it, we don’t include it in our routine, it seems as if nature is only a friend when we’re travelers.
Even when we do not appreciate it, nature finds a way to include us.
We neglect the realities of nature, adventures that translate into great stories are not appreciated by us, realities of leeches, ants, being confined by the woods or a soothing walk gone bad, this is a pattern of society, we do not like things that are not ideal, when things deteriorate, we run.
Like everything else, natures changes with time. We cannot see time, like we see nature.
Time is not something we can romanticize,we can romanticize events within time, but does the actual time have a face, does it have a name?

Time takes the shapes of things, because time never ever stands still.
I wish for the concept of time to take the shape of our surroundings, of nature that constantly picks itself up and moves on. Nature takes its own course whether in the shape of a cloud or a steady flow of the river, not unlike time, it evolves.

Exhibitions from 2007 -2012

16 Jun 2012 - 28 Jul 2012
NEW !
UPCOMING! As Above So Below       Exhibition by Anne Leveque   

19 Jan 2012 - 24 Feb 2012
Zephyr Exhibition by Olarn Plubplon 

15 Sep 2011 - 20 Oct 2011
THERE Exhibition by Nattaya Holsakul          

9 Jun 2011 - 16 Jul 2011
AFTER AFTERALL
Exhibition by Kade Javanalikikorn      

24 Feb 2011 - 2 Apr 2011
ROAD HOME
Exhibition by Susu Pianchupattana   

9 Nov 2010 - 18 Dec 2010
Man & The Moon
Exhibition by Artid Poonyasiri

29 Jul 2010 - 4 Sep 2010
THE REALITY OF ABSTRACTION
Exhibition by Anne Leveque   

11 Feb 2010 - 13 Mar 2010
Heart Core
Exhibition by Narissara Pianwimungsa         

5 Nov 2009 - 26 Dec 2009
Dusk
Exhibition by Olarn Plubplon 

19 Aug 2009 - 16 Sep 2009
Love and Affection
Exhibition by Pookpan Chairat 

27 May 2009 - 27 Jun 2009
Visionary Word
Solo exhibition by Kitikong Tilokwattanotai  

22 Nov 2008 - 22 Jan 2009
MUSIC THROUGH ART
Special group exhibition by both Thai and International artists.      

18 Sep 2008 - 18 Oct 2008
RADIO RABBITZ
Exhibition by P7         

5 Jul 2008 - 2 Aug 2008
THE TRIO
Group exhibition by Kitikong Tilokwattanotai, Auxchanok Chirakul and Apirak Jianpinidnun    

3 Apr 2008 - 3 May 2008
HALF-DREAMING VIETNAM
Solo exhibition by Olarn Plubplon. Works are a conbination of mixed technique on handmade "Sa paper" as well as oil and acrylic on canvas

15 Nov 2007 - 29 Dec 2007
POZ and ME
Solo exhibition by Thanrak Sangsuwan         

5 Sep 2007 - 13 Oct 2007
HOOPLA – LOOP
Group exhibition by Luck Maisalee, Artid Poonyasiri and Torlarp Larpjaroensuk 

19 May 2007 - 30 Jun 2007
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK by self-taught artist Piengrutai Komaratat. This was her first ever-solo exhibition after achieving recognition from many prominent art collectors, both locally and internationally.    

More Background on Art Republic Bangkok

Art Republic Bangkok was a contemporary art gallery that played a significant role in the Thai art scene from 2007 to 2012. Located on the third floor of Peninsula Plaza on Rajadamri Road in Bangkok’s Pathumwan district, the gallery became a prominent venue for showcasing both emerging and established Thai artists. Its programming, community engagement, and commitment to contemporary expression marked it as a key contributor to Bangkok’s cultural landscape during a period of rapid growth and internationalization in Thai art.

Historical Context and Location

Bangkok’s art scene underwent a transformation in the late 2000s and early 2010s, with the emergence of new galleries, artist-run spaces, and major institutions. Art Republic Bangkok opened in 2007, capitalizing on this momentum. Its central location in Peninsula Plaza placed it at the crossroads of the city’s commercial and cultural activity, making it accessible to a diverse audience of locals, tourists, and international collectors.

The gallery operated for about five years, closing in 2012. During this time, it contributed to the visibility and appreciation of contemporary Thai art, offering a professional and welcoming space for artistic exchange.

Programming and Exhibitions

Art Republic Bangkok was known for its dynamic and varied exhibition schedule, featuring solo and group shows across a wide range of media. The gallery’s programming reflected a commitment to showcasing the diversity of Thai artistic expression, from painting and sculpture to mixed media and conceptual installations.

Notable Exhibitions and Artists

Some of the gallery’s most memorable exhibitions included:

• “AFTER AFTERALL” by Kade Javanalikikorn (2011): This solo exhibition explored themes of nature, time, and human experience, inviting viewers to reflect on their relationship with the natural world and the passage of time.

• “Love and Affection” by Pookpan Chairat (2009): Focusing on personal memory and family rituals, this show used everyday objects as vessels for nostalgia and emotional resonance.

• “The Reality of Abstraction” by Anne Leveque (2010): Leveque’s work brought abstraction to the forefront, offering new perspectives on form, color, and perception.

• “Man & The Moon” by Artid Poonyasiri (2010): This exhibition delved into the symbolism of the moon and its influence on human imagination.

• “HOOPLA – LOOP” (2007): A group exhibition featuring Chiangmai-based artists Luck Maisalee, Artid Poonyasiri, and Torlarp Larpjaroensuk, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment found in artistic creation.

The gallery’s roster included both established artists and newcomers, reflecting a philosophy of inclusivity and artistic exploration.

Audience and Community Engagement

Art Republic Bangkok attracted a diverse audience:

• Local art enthusiasts: Residents of Bangkok who followed the city’s growing contemporary art movement.

• Tourists and expatriates: Visitors seeking insight into Thai culture and creativity.

• Collectors: Both local and international buyers interested in discovering new talent and acquiring works by established Thai artists.

• Artists and students: Those seeking inspiration, networking, and opportunities for collaboration.

Exhibitions were often accompanied by opening receptions and artist talks, fostering dialogue and a sense of community among attendees.

Reputation and Reviews

While Art Republic Bangkok did not receive the same level of international press as larger institutions, it was well-regarded within local art circles for its professionalism, welcoming atmosphere, and support for artists. Reviews and word-of-mouth accounts from the period highlight the gallery’s role as a friendly, accessible space where visitors could engage with contemporary art in a relaxed setting.

The gallery’s exhibitions were noted for their thoughtful curation and for providing a platform for both experimentation and tradition. Artists appreciated the opportunity to present ambitious projects, while audiences valued the chance to encounter a wide range of artistic voices.

Cultural and Social Significance

Art Republic Bangkok’s significance lies in its timing and approach. The late 2000s and early 2010s were pivotal years for Thai contemporary art, with increased attention from international collectors, curators, and critics. The gallery’s willingness to champion both emerging and established artists contributed to the vibrancy and diversity of the scene.

Its focus on personal, social, and environmental themes mirrored broader trends in Thai art, where artists often address identity, memory, and the relationship between tradition and modernity. The gallery’s exhibitions provided a space for reflection and conversation on these topics, helping to shape public understanding of contemporary art’s relevance.

Comparison with Other Bangkok Art Venues

During its operation, Art Republic Bangkok was part of a constellation of galleries and spaces that included:

• SAC Gallery: Known for nurturing emerging artists and providing educational programs.

• Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC): A major public institution and cultural hub hosting large-scale exhibitions and events.

• BANGKOK CITYCITY GALLERY: Focused on experimental and conceptual contemporary art.

Art Republic was distinguished by its central location, approachable atmosphere, and a balanced program that bridged tradition and innovation.

Legacy and Lasting Impact

Although Art Republic Bangkok closed its physical space in 2012, its influence persists in several ways:

• Artist Careers: Many artists who exhibited at Art Republic went on to show at other galleries in Thailand and abroad, benefiting from the exposure and experience gained.

• Art Community: The gallery helped foster a sense of solidarity and exchange among artists, curators, and art lovers, contributing to the collaborative spirit that characterizes the Thai art scene today.

• Documentation: The gallery’s exhibition history is still referenced by collectors and researchers interested in the development of Thai contemporary art.

Broader Context: Collective Practice in Thailand

Art Republic Bangkok’s collaborative, community-oriented approach reflects a broader tradition in Thai art of collective practice and social engagement. From the avant-garde Ruang Pung Art Community of the 1980s to contemporary artist-run spaces, Thai artists have often worked together to challenge conventions, address political and social issues, and create new forms of expression. This collective ethos continues to shape the country’s art world, ensuring its ongoing relevance and dynamism.

Art Republic Bangkok stands as a testament to the energy and creativity of Thailand’s contemporary art scene during a transformative period. Its commitment to inclusivity, experimentation, and community helped nurture talent and bring contemporary Thai art to a wider audience. While the gallery itself is no longer active, its legacy endures in the artists it supported, the exhibitions it hosted, and the collaborative spirit it embodied.