The Toot Yung Art Gallery opened in 2010 in Bangkok as a small hub for emerging contemporary Thai artists. It has since evolved into a thriving Art Center in Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, with a dedicated Art Gallery, Design Gallery, Residences and Events program.
Under the patronage of Udom Dansakchai, who built and designed the now Toot Yung Art Center, was purposefully established away from the touristic city center. Instead, it was set up along the rural banks of the Ping River, with the intention to create an oasis of calm and beauty where art collectors and amateurs alike can take the time to explore the center’s rich collection and exhibitions.
A program of Quarterly Art and Design exhibitions is curated by Myrtille Tibayrenc, the founder and Director of Toot Yung Art Center. Myrtille, a renown French painter herself, with the support of her husband, Thai sculptor Haritorn Akarapat, represent an enviable list of contemporary artists such as Pakitsilp Varamissara, Tawan Wattuya and Montri Toemsombat who are present in the center’s permanent collection.
International artists and designers are also invited for residences to collaborate with local craftsmen and develop work shedding light on the region’s unique way of working fine materials such as teak, silver or silk.
Following the pace of the main gallery, the Design Gallery features Thai and foreign designers shifting traditional crafts to modern, exquisite hand made art pieces, inspired by local artistries and culture. Taking advantage of its varied spaces, the Art Center also aims to create cultural events such as concerts, lectures, performances, fashion shows, and film nights.