Aurum Gallery - Unlocking Urban Expression
In the labyrinthine streets and bustling alleyways of Bangkok, an electrifying artistic revolution is taking place—one that spills beyond the confines of traditional galleries and into the open air. Forgotten structures and neglected urban spaces serve as a blank canvas, providing artists with the opportunity to showcase their talents. Free wall spaces are a rarity, and expansive artworks are frequently unearthed in distant or concealed locales. Charoen Krung, a creative district has emerged as the epicenter of Bangkok's burgeoning hipster scene. The once-sleepy streets now pulse with the eclectic energy of creativity, culture, and a dash of bohemian spirit. “The BukRulArt Festival in 2016 is widely regarded as a catalyst for the burgeoning street art movement and increased popularity in the Charoenkrung area. A surge in artistic talent emerged in mid-2020 during the Covid period,” explains Aurum’s Gallery Manager, Spun Ngoensritong.
Inspired by New York’s golden era of graffiti art, Aurum Gallery, is situated on Captain Bush Lane at Warehouse 30, a trendy community project of restored World War 2 warehouses. Take a stroll in, and you'll encounter a vibrant array of diverse pieces, incorporating unconventional mixed media- spray paint, acrylics, and even glass. Aurum Gallery's expansive 500 square-meter space hosts an impressive showcase featuring over 556 artists. There are numerous discoveries to be made, including pieces by renowned artists such as Belin, Ben Eine, Bio, Bisco Smith, Ces, Crash, Helio Bray, and many more.
Street art in Bangkok represents a relatively new cultural phenomenon. Aurum Gallery, led by the distinguished British artist and DJ Goldie [Clifford Joseph Price (MBE)], has been a pivotal force since its inception in 2020 in reshaping street culture in the city. As a luminary in both the visual and auditory realms, Goldie imparts a distinctive touch to the gallery, creating an inviting atmosphere complemented by a background melody that seamlessly intertwines his visual and musical passions. "The gallery space isn't your typical white space where you stare at art that you can’t relate to. The artists we showcase often convey a message through their work and the materials they choose,” explains Ngoensritong.
One fascinating aspect of Aurum Gallery lies in its strategic location. Ngoensritong explains "Captain Bush Lane and its neighboring blocks hold a rich history, reflecting the enduring influence of the Western expatriate community that established itself in Bangkok during the mid-nineteenth century.” As you traverse this stretch, a harmonious coexistence of Buddhist temples, social clubs, and vacant buildings unfolds—a unique amalgamation that has attracted artists, including Goldie himself, to establish their presence in this eclectic locale. “Goldie wants to actively contribute to the evolving street art scene. He has collaborated with the young Thai artist Jecks on the Gold Leaf Train, a substantial metal piece adorned with vibrant graffiti. This artwork serves as a celebration of their distinctive graffiti styles. Collaborating with Jecks is a way for Goldie to fulfill his mission of showcasing under-the-radar artists and their talent," she said.
The gallery boasts a dynamic workshop space designed to showcase artists in action, as well as providing master classes and hosting events. Ngoensritong says, “We have a wide range of visitors keeping the gallery bustling, including artists, collectors, students, expats, and tourists. Our collectors span various age groups, with individuals in their 50s and 60s well-versed in street art. Simultaneously, there is a growing community of young emerging collectors eager to explore what's currently trending and considered a hot investment asset in the art world.”
Street Art Renaissance
Bangkok’s street art scene is garnering increased attention with burgeoning talents, from established, mid-career, to emerging young artists. Ngoensritong explained that "Increased support from both the government and private sectors has created a conducive environment for artists. By uniting their efforts, they could provide a haven for artists for mutual inspiration and connection, fostering not only camaraderie between them but also stronger ties with the broader community.”
Artworks and walls are typically commissioned by both small and large business owners aiming to infuse or replicate an urban atmosphere. The transformative power of street art extends to gentrifying neighborhoods while simultaneously contributing to the creation of positive, engaging, and inspiring environments within communities.
We have a wide range of visitors keeping the gallery bustling, including artists, collectors, students, expats, and tourists. Our collectors span various age groups, with individuals in their 50s and 60s well-versed in street art. Simultaneously, there is a growing community of young emerging collectors eager to explore what's currently trending and considered a hot investment asset in the art world.
Ngoensritong observes that the transient and ephemeral nature of street art, subject to repainting, and constant transformation, injects an exciting element. “You get new stuff popping up all the time, and people are excited to see what’s appearing in the neighbourhood. The art seamlessly becomes woven into the fabric of the local community and people's lives, she reveals.
The intricate dance between creativity and societal reception continues to shape the dynamic landscape of street art. Depending on the context, graffiti can be publicly admired as "street art"—valued up to millions of dollars—or it can lead to criminalization. Despite this, street art faces stigmatization and rejection globally, often misconstrued as mere vandalism. Instances of artworks being painted over or removed due to ongoing development pose significant obstacles. According to Ngoensritong, “The perception of street art as either illegal vandalism or a legitimate form of expression [hinges] on the consent, intention, and communication between space owners and artists,” she says. She further adds “It depends on who you ask and how they interpret the pieces. Generally, younger generations view street art more positively, while the older generation is still [contemplating their interpretation of these works.]”
