As the world prepares to mark UNESCO’s celebration of fine arts on 15th April, curious explorers can enjoy inspiring, art-infused adventures at hotels in Thailand, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Vietnam and South Korea
“Timeless Thai,” a modern art exhibition at The StandardX, Bangkok Phra Arthit
Art is truly international – it transcends borders, defies nationality, and can be interpreted in any language. This makes it a wonderfully powerful tool to build bonds between people around the world, and many hotels and resorts in Asia are now harnessing this strength to inspire their guests, spark conversation, and foster a spirit of cultural understanding.
Staged on 15th April, World Art Day is a UNESCO-led initiative designed to highlight the importance of art and showcase the work of artists around the globe. To mark this annual celebration, join us as we step inside the finest places to stay that are now thrilling travellers with their original art and creativity.
The StandardX, Bangkok Phra Arthit
Newly opened in November 2024, The StandardX, Bangkok Phra Arthit is an edgy, minimalist hotel that envelops visitors in Bangkok’s dynamic contemporary art scene. Situated in a culturally rich area close to the Chao Phraya River and Silpakorn University, Thailand’s leading arts institution, this is not simply a place to stay – it is a living gallery that integrates art into its architecture and interior design. Within this striking boutique hotel, guests can unwind in a choice of 62 design-led rooms, enjoy Thai street food at BANG, chill out at The Roof, and visit the 10 10 Art Space, a 24-7 gallery that showcases the works of established and emerging Thai artists with exhibitions, workshops, and an artist-in-residence programme.
World Art Day – What’s On?
This World Art Day (and throughout April), the 10 10 Art Space will host “Timeless Thai,” a modern art exhibition that celebrates the kingdom’s rich heritage. To coincide with Thai New Year, revellers can also enjoy upbeat Songkran festivities, happy hours and riverside events.
Mondrian Hong Kong
Mondrian Hong Kong is a vibrant hub of contemporary art in the bustling heart of Tsim Sha Tsui. With 324 rooms across 40 floors, including a collection of stunning suites designed by Karin Krautgartner, plus the Carna by Dario Cecchini steakhouse, and Avoca, a trendy rooftop bar and interactive exhibition space with spectacular views of Victoria Harbour, this five-star hotel connects guests with the dynamic spirit of the city. Directly opposite the hotel, juxtaposed with this soaring skyscraper, The Corner Shop is an edgy streetside venue for pop-up events, dazzling installations, guerrilla art, cultural experiences, and community engagement – including exhibitions from Hong Kong’s brightest young talent.
World Art Day – What’s On?
Two talented local artists, Liao Jiaming and Aaron Lam Kwok Yam, present “Once Lost, Now Found” – a multi-sensory journey of discovery spanning two distinct venues, The Corner Shop and The Roofgarden, which is perched on the hotel’s 40th floor. This exhibition runs from now until 4th May.
InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort
The breakout project from Bill Bensley, the maverick architect and interior designer, InterContinental Danang is a spectacular seafront sanctuary that immerses travellers in a world of art and design. Spanning 39 hectares and four levels – Heaven, Sky, Earth , and Sea – all linked by the Nam Tram funicular railway, this one-of-a-kind resort blends authentic cultural elements inspired by Vietnam’s ancient temples and pagodas, with vibrant splashes of colour and creativity, including quirky furnishings and original artworks. Guests can savour sublime Vietnamese cuisine in booths shaped like non-la conical hats at Citron, sip drinks from the 50-metre L_O_N_G Bar, or experience the art of sound therapy at Mi Sol Spa, where the treatment rooms are shaped like Quonset huts.
World Art Day – What’s On?
Art lovers can take the Nam Tram to Sky level and visit the BENSLEY Outsider Gallery, a dedicated space that showcases works by Bill Bensley. These bold, bright paintings exude energy and joy, and the proceeds from sales are donated to wildlife charities in Southeast Asia.
Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador
Overlooking the Han River in the centre of Seoul, this poetic sanctuary embraces travellers in a tranquil world of art and design. At Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery Ambassador, every aspect of the guest experience appears to ripple and flow with the river, which sets a scenic backdrop to every stay through panoramic glass walls – from the light-filled 20th floor lobby to the modern rooms, elegant restaurants and the remarkable infinity pool. Art lovers can explore a bright living gallery, woven into the fabric of the hotel, with original pieces by famous Korean artists including Ha Chong-Hyun, the famous monochrome artist whose work graces the stunning 187-square metre Naru Suite (pictured).
World Art Day – What’s On?
The “Naru Moment” art tour will transport guests on a guided journey through the hotel’s collection of contemporary Korean artworks – including works by Ha Chong-Hyun. This one-hour experience concludes with signature cocktails at Bar Voisin.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
Imagined and crafted by Bill Bensley, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa transports travellers into the mythical Lamarck University, a former centre of learning which is said to have thrived between 1880 and 1940. From the grand gates flanked by two huge statues of Ridgeback dogs – the symbol of the university – to the check-in experience at the Dean’s Library, and the rooms, suites and villas dedicated to various fields of scientific study, guests will be escorted on a voyage into Bensley’s whimsical world, brought to life through enchanting interiors and many unique artworks and artefacts. The fine five-star hospitality includes a glistening seashell-shaped pool, sophisticated dining, the Chanterelle Spa, and a powder-soft beach.
World Art Day – What’s On?
Art lovers are invited to embark on a captivating journey through time with a tour of Lamarck University. The entire resort is a canvas for Bill Bensley’s visionary art, and every detail tells a story, including the harmony of Eastern and Western styles that influenced the resort’s creation.
Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra
Art is an essential part of French heritage and identity, and Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra seamlessly weaves Cambodia’s rich history and modern social trends with the spirit of French art de vivre. Nestled in an elegant colonial-style building, amid landscaped gardens and overlooking the river in the centre of the capital city, this exceptional hotel features a collection of chic rooms and suites, award-winning dining and world-class wellness. It also actively collaborates with local and regional artists, curating public exhibitions at The Gallery, which provides a platform for cultural exchange and storytelling. Whether through boundary-pushing visual art or musical moments, guests can feel a genuine connection with the heart and soul of the destination.
World Art Day – What’s On?
To mark World Art Day, The Gallery will stage “Rust ‘n Streets”, an exhibition by Théo Vallier, a French pioneer of Cambodia’s street art movement who has been based in the country since 2007. This exhibition is a perfect cross-cultural fusion that blends Khmer mythology with urban aesthetics.
