The Arena of Arts: Siam Paragon redefines luxury with accessible art for all

As Siam Paragon strives to be the grand stage of the world, the retail centre brings the concept of luxury for all to life through its unique ‘Arena of Arts’— a space that blends world-class shopping with inspiring art to create unforgettable experiences for visitors.

Let’s face it, art museum attendance has been on the decline worldwide. Despite some recovery, accessibility and cost remain major barriers for many families and individuals. With admission fees keeping people out, it’s no surprise attendance has dropped. Yet, that doesn’t mean that art isn’t important. For centuries, art has been a vital part of society and culture, whether it’s sculpting, painting, or drawing. It’s a creative outlet that brings people together, helping us better understand the world and ourselves.

Living in today’s fast-paced, media-saturated world, art has never been more important. Besides inspiring creativity and sparking conversations, art connects us to the beauty of the present (which can be difficult in this day and age). That’s why bringing art into everyday public spaces is a must, and Siam Paragon has gained the upper hand on this.

[All images courtesy of Siam Paragon]

Siam Paragon’s ‘The Arena of Arts’

Proving that a mall can be much more than a shopping destination, Siam Paragon is dedicated to “creating extraordinary experiences beyond expectations.” Following its recent renovations in early 2024, this global landmark has also embraced ‘The Arena of Arts.’ To make contemporary art accessible to everyone, Siam Paragon hosts rotating exhibitions that inspire fresh perspectives. From local Thai artists to internationally acclaimed figures, what was once considered an experience reserved for a specific class or status is now available for all visitors to enjoy in “one single, unparalleled venue.”

Just last year, world-class British artist Philip Colbert, often referred to as the “godson of Andy Warhol,” showcased a Songkran Lobster Wonderland with his vibrant pop art installations. Following that, Siam Paragon featured 10 exclusive contemporary pieces by artists such as Pascal Dombis, who created Aurora, along with Miguel Chevalier, Sarayut Kurakaew, Donghoon Oh, John Helton, Pieter Obels, Inson Wongsam, Naritthorn Sethakunarat, and Wisut Ponnimit. Their latest masterpiece, The Future in Our Hand, unveiled this month, was designed by internationally renowned artist Jaime Hayon. Known for his playful yet sophisticated designs, Jaime Hayon has been in the industry for over 25 years. Having worked across the globe, Hayon’s creations are marked by his unmistakable signature. His work often features whimsical elements paired with thought-provoking meanings, along with recurring touches like funny shoes and the use of animals.

‘The Future in Our Hand’  by Jaime Hayon

The Future in Our Hand is a 3.75-metre-tall sculpture of a monkey holding a ball. However, its symbolism runs much deeper. “This piece is a thinking object. It makes us reflect on ourselves—our importance, the time we have in this life, and how the future can be beautiful if we focus. Everyone has the power to create hope and dreams for a brighter future,” Hayon explains. The highlight of the sculpture is the reflective sphere that represents the world, serving as a metaphor for self-reflection.

Now, since Siam Paragon is recognised for blending luxury, art, and culture into an immersive experience, Hayon thoughtfully integrated these elements into his piece through its structure and materials. “The monkey is sculpted in the posture of a prideful human. We’re at Siam Paragon, a luxurious destination. The monkey’s posture evokes a sense of grandeur, much like how people feel while walking through the mall. As for the material, I enjoy using high-quality products. In this case, we used stone powder to create a nice shape and give the sculpture dimension with its lines and textures. Then there’s the stainless steel, which gives this luminous reflection, creating a balance of raw and luxurious elements that make the piece elegant.”

Visit Siam Paragon to experience their latest masterpiece, ‘The Future in Our Hands,’ located on the 1st floor, and be sure to stay tuned for the unveiling of exclusive creations that will make up a complete collection of 20 art pieces for their ‘Arena of Arts’ in December, as they celebrate their 20th anniversary. For further information, please click here.