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Baan Silapin
A community of creatives for creatives on the riverbanks
Baan Silapin, literally meaning Artist’s House, is a lesser-known community situated along the old Bang Luang canal. Hidden away from plain sight on the Thonburi side of Bangkok by the contemporary development and growth, it primarily serves as a workspace, exhibition hall, café and souvenir shops. Moreover, it aims to preserve the arts, culture and promote the traditional Thai puppet theatre by converting a part of the 200-year-old family house into a cultural centre.
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Established in 2010, the wooden structure of Baan Silapin has been renovated and maintained in pristine condition by the four co-founders. It is an L-shaped, two-storey Manila home surrounding an ancient goldsmith family Chedi. Visitors can admire the local way of living in the neighbourhood as well as pay respect to the pagoda dating back to the Ayutthaya period. Fish feeding activity is also available.
Both the Artist’s House attraction and traditional Thai puppet theatre are free of charge. The gallery regularly hosts art exhibitions, creative activities and workshops. These include jewellery-making classes and mask painting for children.
The small coffee shop offers a general selection of hot and cold drinks with some simple Thai dishes available on the weekends. At the back of the shop, there is a wooden staircase leading to numerous local artist shops where visitors can buy paintings and drawings.
The puppet show is held four days a week on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday with one show per day at 2pm. The show could be abruptly cancelled due to off-site performance, so make a phone call in advance.
There are a few ways to reach Artist’s House including public transportation, personal vehicle and boat service.
Baan Silapin is a short taxi ride from Tha Phra MRT station. It is open from Monday to Tuesday, 10am-6pm; Wednesday to Friday, 9am-6pm; and Saturday to Sunday, 9am-7pm. Puppet shows are held every Tuesday to Sunday at 2pm, but it’s best to call and confirm ahead of time.
Baan Silapin
309 Phet Kasem Soi 28 Rd
Open daily: 10am-6pm
Tel: 02 868 5279
www.facebook.com/pg/Baansilapin
