The Origin of Kunawong House Museum: A Journey of Passion and Preservation

Kunawong House Museum was born out of a deep passion for art, books, and antiquities a passion that inspired the founder to begin an earnest journey of art collecting. This journey started from visits to museums abroad, where a transformative encounter at The British Museum left a lasting impression. There, the founder discovered the works of Igor Mitoraj, a renowned Polish sculptor, and acquired a limited-edition sculpture through purchasing the artist’s book marking the very first step into the world of art collecting.

From this humble beginning, the collection expanded to include Thai sculptures, antiques, and paintings, bringing together cherished pieces that carried both artistic and emotional value. These works were initially kept close within the home and workplace but eventually inspired the creation of a new space designed with a clear intention: to be a place of inspiration, a museum open to the public. Today, Kunawong House Museum welcomes visitors one day a week, offering a rare glimpse into this unique private collection.

A pivotal moment in the founder’s life occurred upon witnessing abandoned student sculptures left neglected in a public space at Silpakorn University. This experience ignited a mission to conserve and promote Thai sculpture, leading to the establishment of the Bangkok Sculpture Center on July 5, 2004. The center was envisioned as an exhibition and learning hub for students, artists, and the general public, both Thai and international. Today, it houses a collection of approximately 200 sculptures.

The collection expanded to include Buddha sculptures from various historical periods, spanning Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Rattanakosin art, as well as pieces from the Lopburi and Dvaravati styles. It also features contemporary works by emerging Thai artists. The collection is occasionally showcased through rotating exhibitions at the Bangkok Art and Culture Center, offering visitors a chance to experience Thailand’s artistic heritage across different eras.

Eventually, the entire collection ranging from Buddha statues and antiquities to diverse works of art was brought together under one permanent home: Kunawong House Museum at Suphannasurawong. The museum is thoughtfully divided into zones, including a Buddhist meditation practice center and an exhibition area dedicated to contemporary Buddhist art. Highlights include works by Nonthivathn Chandhanaphalin, reflecting meditative insights; pieces by Daeng Bua Saen, exploring the concept of samsara; and sculptures by Noppadol, using traditional Thai bronze casting techniques to translate meditative experiences into artistic form.

Today, Kunawong House Museum stands as a testament to a journey that began with a spark of inspiration, growing into a remarkable collection and a vibrant space for learning, sharing, and preserving Thai cultural heritage for generations to come.