Thailand's premier fine arts university, opposite the Grand Palace, with public galleries and a beautiful campus.
Founded in 1943 by Italian sculptor Corrado Feroci (who became Thai citizen Silpa Bhirasri) — Thailand's most prestigious fine arts institution.
The university gallery hosts regular contemporary Thai art exhibitions — free entry, often excellent; check schedules online.
Beautiful colonial buildings directly opposite the Grand Palace walls — a peaceful contrast to the tourist crowds outside.
Charoen Krung and nearby streets have become Bangkok's gallery district — Silpakorn is the anchor institution.
Founded in 1943 by Italian sculptor Corrado Feroci (who took Thai citizenship as Silpa Bhirasri), Silpakorn remains Thailand's most prestigious art and design university — its public galleries showcase both student and established Thai artists.
Rotating exhibitions in the university gallery are free and open to the public — quality varies by show, but the location directly opposite the Grand Palace makes it an easy, low-cost addition to an Old City temple day.
Check current exhibition dates before visiting, as gallery spaces sometimes close between shows — the campus itself is worth a walk regardless for its colonial-era architecture.