MOCA Bangkok | Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Top Contemporary Art Museum
MOCA Bangkok (Museum of Contemporary Art) is one of the largest private museums dedicated to contemporary art in Thailand. This complete guide presents its history, permanent collections, temporary exhibitions, and all the practical information you need to plan your visit.
History and Legacy of MOCA Bangkok
MOCA came to life thanks to two key figures. Boonchai Bencharongkul, a passionate collector, invested both time and money to gather major works. He was inspired by Silpa Bhirasri (1892–1962), an Italian-born artist and teacher who became a Thai citizen and is considered the father of modern Thai art. Founder of Silpakorn University of Fine Arts, Bhirasri left a lasting mark on Thailand’s art scene and paved the way for the country’s embrace of contemporary art.
Architecture and Museum Spaces
From the outside, MOCA appears as a massive minimalist cube with almost closed facades. The entrance is near a small garden with a pond, where the first artwork of the visit is displayed.
Inside, the volumes are striking. The museum’s five floors house artworks of all sizes. After passing the statue of Silpa Bhirasri, the visit begins with the permanent collection on the first floor.
Permanent Collections and Featured Artists
The museum displays hundreds of works by Thai and international artists over four floors. Highlights include portraits by Veerasak Sassadde, compositions by Chairat Saengthong, paintings by Amarin Buppasiri, and the darker works of Pradit Tungprasartwong.
Between Tradition and Modernity
Some sections explore the dialogue between traditional and contemporary art. The story of Khun Chang is presented in a setting inspired by a Thai house, contrasting with immersive installations such as the giant egg-shaped entrance leading to monumental canvases.
A whole floor is dedicated to Thawan Duchanee, an iconic figure of Thai art, offering a comprehensive panorama of his work.
Throughout the visit, wooden benches—artworks themselves—offer places to rest while admiring the exhibitions.
Opening hours: 10am–6pm, closed on Mondays
Admission: Adults 300 THB / Students 120 THB / Combined tickets available
Address: MOCA – 499 Kamphaengphet 6 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok
Access:
- BTS Kasetsart University + taxi or motorcycle taxi
- MRT Phahon Yothin + taxi
- Red Line, Bang Khen station + 5–10 min walk
Official website: mocabangkok.com
FAQ about MOCA Bangkok
Where is MOCA located in Bangkok?
It’s in the Chatuchak district, in the northern part of Bangkok.
How long does it take to visit MOCA?
Plan 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the collections.
Is MOCA Bangkok kid-friendly?
Yes, although some works may be intense for younger children.
Can you buy artworks at MOCA?
The museum is not a commercial gallery, but the shop sells reproductions and art books.
Temporary Exhibitions at MOCA Bangkok
Archive: Past Exhibitions at MOCA Bangkok
In 2022, MOCA hosted The Art of Banksy: Without Limits, a landmark event that drew visitors from around the globe, reaffirming its central role in Asia’s art scene.
