Ways to Experience Local Thai Art and Culture at Baan Sillapin in Hua Hin

If you are looking for a unique way to explore Thailand beyond its beaches and night markets, a visit to Hua Hin is a perfect choice. A coastal town just a few hours from Bangkok, Hua Hin is where art, culture, and creativity come alive. A must-visit for any art lover when in Hua Hin is Baan Sillapin, which is known as the Hua Hin Artists Village. Here’s a guide on how you can experience Thai art and culture like a local for an unforgettable experience. 

Know your objective

From art workshops and pottery classes to vibrant art markets, Hua Hin has it all. Therefore, it is easy to get lost in all the options, and as such, knowing your objective and setting an intention for your visit will help you make the most of your visit and better plan your time. Baan Sillapin is a great place to immerse yourself in Thai culture, and therefore, you should plan it well to make sure it is a meaningful experience. If you are staying somewhere like the Avani+ Hua Hin Resort, the hotel could also provide you with insights and even arrange your visit to Baan Sillapin Artists Village. 

Join a Workshop

The best way to immerse yourself in art and craft is by creating something yourself. Therefore, joining a workshop will provide you with an opportunity to paint on a canvas, shape clay or even carve wood with expert artisans from the village. If you are travelling with kids, there are also plenty of tailored workshops for kids. This is also a great way to keep your kids occupied while you take a stroll through the market. Either way, joining an art workshop will add value to your visit. 

Visit Artist Studios

The village is home to artist families, each with a studio located within the village. During your visit, exploring one or more of these studios will give you a glimpse into their creative process and daily life, allowing you to connect with Thai art on a personal level. The studios in the village range from sculpture and carving to photography, jewellery design, and more. When you visit these studios, you will have the chance to sit in and observe the fascinating process and the effort that goes into the creation of beautiful art and crafts. Watching the artists at work, whether they’re painting, sculpting, or crafting intricate designs, can be both an enriching learning experience and a meditative way to spend your time. Picking a few studios based on your interests and time available will help you make the most out of the visit. 

Purchase Art and Art Materials 

If you are an art collector or an artist yourself, there are plenty of things you can purchase while you are in the village. Not just original paintings and handmade ceramics, but you also have the opportunity to purchase art materials and even frame artwork if you wish to. Buying directly from the artists themselves will add value to your purchase as they will be able to provide you with insights and stories behind their creation. Given that there are many things to purchase, it gives you the perfect opportunity to support the local art community while adding something truly special to your collection. 

Relax with a Coffee

The art cafe in the village is a great place to sit down and sip a coffee or a Thai iced tea while enjoying the traditional Thai decor in the cafe. It is also an opportunity to purchase traditional souvenirs, greeting cards and prints to take home as well. After a long day of walking around, this is a great way to wind down and relax.