From a Living Museum to "Ruean Varaporn" ? a new green lung of Bangkok ? is ready to debut at Bangkok Design Week 2023 for those interested in local culture.
Insat-Sa-Ang Foundation and Dr. Francis Christian Foundation invite Thai people to the opening of "Ruean Varaporn (Varaporn's House)," a small community's green space in Soi Charoen Krung 43, which is also the foundation's office, in remembrance of "Ajarn Varaporn Surawadee," the founder of "Bangkokian Museum," which was intended to be a learning centre for local culture and way of life of Bangkokians during 1927-1957. The Museum was handed over under Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's care in 2004. The foundation also continues the intention of Ajarn Varaporn in disseminating knowledge in arts and culture, archeology, Buddhism, and public health, as well as supporting activities for the quality of life and continuing to cooperate with other charitable organisations for the public benefit.
After the loss of Ajarn Varaporn at the age of 82 on January 25, 2017, both foundations jointly proceeded with the construction of Ruean Varaporn, which was simple yet pleasant on an area of 105 square wa. The land, worth 40 million baht, was bought to terminate the construction of an 8-floor building that would greatly affect the surrounding environment and the Bangkokian Museum. It was 30 million baht from Ajarn Varaporn's savings and over 10 million baht donated by Thai people across the country within less than a month that became a phenomenal inspiration that consequently saved the local cultural heritage and led to the construction of "Ruean Varaporn," the small green space that truly belongs to all Thai people.
On this occasion, the Foundation has organised an exhibition to tell the story of Ruean Varaporn in a simple way, under the concept "Muang-Mitr-Dee (City's Good Friends)," reflecting on the prosperity of the old commercial district since the reign of King Rama IV, combining interesting subcultures within the Charoen Krung area, Talat Noi, Song Wad and nearby locations in a charming and contemporary way. The exhibition is curated by Kullaya Kassakul, Director and Secretary of the Insat-Sa-Ang Foundation, and the Dr. Francis Christian Foundation.
Visitors can be part of the Ruean Varaporn's debut, next to the Bangkokian Museum in Soi Charoen Krung 43, during the Bangkok Design Week 2023 between February 4-12, 2023. The foundation will further complete the construction and decoration of the site in the future. Follow our movements via https://www.facebook.com/BkkMuseum