Embark on that art adventure in Bali, Jakarta, Manila and more, and bring home these souvenirs without breaking the bank
Everyone wants to be surrounded by pretty things, but to shell out thousands of dollars for a 4×4 piece of canvas is another level of commitment… and wealth. We got your back with these places to buy affordable art in Singapore, but what if you need more choices? How about this – the next time you go on that vacation in Southeast Asia, check out these other treasures if you’re looking for some affordable artsy souvenirs. We list out the best Southeast Asian art galleries, art stores and markets for your happy hunting.
Online stores
The Artling
Offering a curated selection of Art from Asia’s best galleries and artists, this online art platform is where you can sate your thirst for Art from the comfort of your home. From photography and illustration to sculpture and mixed media, artworks on The Artling fall within the price range of $300 and the thousands. The Artling are also bringing back The Artling Pop-Up on 8-17 September 2017 which will feature over 80 artworks, from 15 local and regional galleries, 8 local artists like Speak Cryptic, Kenny Low, Loi Cai Xiang, and for the first time ever, a design object showcase from Contemporary Asian Designers. The Artling Pop- Up is a key platform for emerging artists and contemporary art in Singapore and Asia.
The Artling, shop online.
The Artling Pop-Up, 8-17 September, Artspace@Helutrans, 39 Keppel Rd, Singapore 089065
Art Loft Asia
Art Loft curates pieces by emerging artists in the Asian contemporary art scene. Shopping for art here is easy-peasy: just tick the box for “under $500” artworks, and you can browse their affordable collection with ease. The store also has a section containing artwork sold for charity, to help mentor budding artists.
Art Loft Asia, shop online.
Shops
Reservo Art in Bali
For something more contemporary in Bali, Reservo Art carries pop art pieces, mixed-media masterpieces, bright and vibrant acrylic paintings, quirky abstract pieces and more. No two pieces are the same, so be prepared to have what you’re looking for in mind, or time will consume you in this space.
Reservo Art, No. 54-56, Jl. Raya Seminyak, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Kult Gallery in Singapore
Urban art space, Kult Gallery, has an extensive collection of quality art from young local and international artists and illustrators. The space is constantly evolving, so don’t be surprised to find new artwork all the time. From bold risograph prints and pop art, to cult movie posters and silkscreen panels, it’s a different experience every time you visit.
Kult Gallery, 11 Upper Wilkie Rd, Singapore 228120
Gallery & Co. in Singapore
After an extensive session of looking at art in National Gallery Singapore, head to the museum store to bring home some art – at affordable prices, at that. Stocked with prints from the seasonal and permanent exhibitions, to products specially designed in-house and more – this aesthetically-pleasing store is just as well-curated as the museum itself.
Gallery & Co., National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Rd, Singapore 178957
Aphro in Manila
The Alley at Karrivin is an art sanctuary in Manila converted from a warehouse. Among the well-curated shops, cafes, and galleries is Aphro, a concept shop where you can find furniture, homewares, craft and also artwork by local artists. Browse through ceramics, embroidered famous artists dolls, handmade rattan bags, paintings and prints; we know you won’t leave empty-handed.
Aphro, The Alley at Karrivin Plaza, 2316 Chino Roces Ave, Makati, 1223 Metro Manila, Philippines
Dia.lo.gue Artspace in Jakarta
Art prints, vintage ad posters, original artwork from contemporary Indonesian artists – you’ll definitely find something for your blank walls here in this hip Jakarta art space. It’s set up to encourage conversation or dialogue on art and design – Dia.lo.gue is the word ‘dialogue’ deconstructed to mean ‘he/she, you, me’. And even if you can’t find something to put on the walls, there’s a lot of interesting merchandise at the shop to check out.
Dia.lo.gue., Jl. Kemang Sel. No.99A, RT.1/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., South Jakarta
Catalyst Art Shop in Jakarta
Created to promote the country’s rising talents in the art scene, this store stocks all sorts of products and mediums. From painted scarves and abstract paintings, to silkscreen t-shirts and hand-drawn cards, it’s a place where anyone can promote their art or craft, even if they are not artistically-trained.
Catalyst Art Shop, Jl. Kemang Utara No. 50, Kemang, South Jakarta
Sukawati Art Market in Bali
This longstanding art market in Bali is where you can find traditional art and handicraft. Unlike the other stores on this list, this one will be quite the experience – get ready to manually dig for stuff you like, bargain with sellers, and lug back your purchases yourself. We suggest you buy the paintings unframed so you can roll up the canvas easily!
Sukawati Art Market, Jl. Raya Sukawati, Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) in Bangkok
This modern art museum has opened up shop spaces to local artists to both display and sell their work. It’s a good mix of fresh new talent and established artists all in one building, and a good way to keep up with art trends while in BKK.
BACC, 939 Rama 1 Rd, Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand
Taw Win Art Gallery in Yangon
After you’re done seeing mass-produced art at the various markets, Taw Win Art Gallery in the Myanmar city is a decent step up with its collection of striking and spectcular artwork by young local artists. No two pieces are the same, and you’ll definitely find something within your budget – or even find yourself splurging a little bit more.
Taw Win Art Gallery, No.2, Main Entrance, Bogyoke Aung San Market, Yangon, Myanmar
Festivals
Affordable Art Fair
If the name is not already obvious, the annual Affordable Art Fair is a great place to start collecting if you don’t want to break the bank. Choose from the quality artwork by local, regional and international talents, and you might just bring home your first contemporary art piece for your home. The Affordable Art Fair returns in 17-19 November, keep tabs!
Affordable Art Fair, 17-19 November, F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Boulevard, Singapore 038975
Art Stage
Asia’s biggest contemporary art fair makes its rounds annually with some of the brightest emerging talents in the art scene, along with some iconic names as well. With a specialised focus on Southeast Asian art, this well-curated event brings together a dynamic and innovative collection of artwork from different artists in the region (and the galleries that represent them as well).
Art Stage happens yearly in a few cities around SEA with Singapore as its flagship city
ManilArt
ManilArt is Philippines’ longest-running and biggest art fair, promoting the best of Philippine art and creativity. Philippines has a vibrant art scene with many different communities and quality galleries spread across the country, so you can expect quite the buzz when ManilArt comes around. From contemporary to traditional art, these pieces are calling out to be plastered on your living room wall.
ManilArt happens annually in Manila.