Hong Kong Art Week 2026? Check. Thailand Biennale 2025? Check.
This year, our journey on MA Global Art Markets took us across the world to Thailand and Hong Kong, breaking from the familiar Western art world and immersing us in two vibrant cultural landscapes where tradition, innovation and the global art market intersect in fascinating ways.
From hidden creative spaces in Bangkok to the bustling halls of Art Basel Hong Kong, every stop challenged how we think about art – and the many worlds that surround it.
Thailand: Where art meets landscape and community
Our adventure began in Thailand, where art felt deeply rooted in place.
We started strong with a memorable visit to Khao Yai Art Forest, a remarkable space three hours outside of Bangkok, where art and nature exist in conversation. Rather than simply displaying artworks, the environment encouraged us to slow down, observe and think about how artists respond to the natural world. It was a reminder that galleries don't always have four walls – a beautiful forest with amazing traditional food and golf carts to drive around can do the job as well!
Bangkok revealed another side of Thailand's creative energy. We explored a network of innovative private art institutions that are redefining the city's cultural landscape (Dib, MOCA, Kunsthalle). We especially loved the house-museum of Jim Thompson, an American entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in revitalizing Thailand's silk industry during the 1950s and 1960s, and who died under mysterious circumstances in the Malaysian jungle. These independently driven spaces demonstrated how collectors and foundations are helping shape artistic conversations, supporting local artists and creating platforms for experimentation, allowing for discussions on alternative models of arts funding and the growing influence of private initiatives in the cultural sector.
The journey continued south to the Thailand Biennale in Phuket, where contemporary artworks were woven into the island's spectacular surroundings. Rather than existing in isolation, many installations responded directly to local histories, environmental concerns and community narratives. The Biennale highlighted how public art can transform familiar landscapes into spaces of reflection and dialogue, pushing for more than tourism made up of backpackers and luxury resorts.
Hong Kong: where creativity meets the global art market
If Thailand encouraged contemplation, Hong Kong accelerated the pace.
Stepping into Art Basel Hong Kong felt like entering the centre of the international art world. Galleries from across the globe showcased works ranging from established blue-chip artists to exciting new voices. It was our first opportunity to experience the scale, diversity, and sheer energy of one of the world's leading contemporary art fairs – and let us tell you, Frieze London is nothing compared to the crowds and spaces of Art Basel Hong Kong.
Just around the corner, Art Central offered a refreshing contrast. With a stronger emphasis on emerging artists and younger galleries, the fair highlighted experimentation and discovery. Together, the two events demonstrated that the contemporary art ecosystem thrives on both established excellence and fresh perspectives.
A highlight of Hong Kong was definitely our visit to Christie’s, during the preview of their 20/21 anniversary auction. Building? Beautiful. Display spaces? Beautiful. Artworks on sale? Beautiful. Bathrooms? Beautiful. Everything mirrored the innovative and diverse essence of the city.
Lessons beyond the classroom: more than a study trip
By the time we boarded our flight back to London, our camera rolls were full and our perspectives significantly expanded. While the itinerary was packed with world-class art, some of the most valuable learning happened between destinations. Long conversations over local meals, navigating cities together and reflecting on each day's experiences created opportunities for collaboration, curiosity and even deeper friendships.
Our time there showed us that art should not be confined to museums or textbooks; it can be seen in forests across the world, in complete strangers, in cities you didn’t know you were going to end up in. The art world is made of its context and heavily depends on its people, communities and cultures; it should not be treated as either a single entity nor individual ones, but as interdependent players which support each other internationally.
Written by The Camis:
- Cami Heredia Oranday
- Camille Lajoie
- Camilla Rossano
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