Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, art exhibitions, shows, food and hotel deals.
STUFF
Floral Collection / Modernform
Painting the world of home decoration with her distinct style in full bloom, illustrator Pomme Chan has teamed up with Modernform for a limited-edition line. Aptly named "Floral Collection", it features an array of beautiful products, including pillow covers, plates, tablecloths and framed pictures, all adorned with vibrant, aesthetically pleasing floral prints. The artist has hand-painted each bloom on canvas to capture the texture and beauty of her brushstrokes before scanning and editing digitally. Find the "Floral Collection" at Modernform Forty 9 and Modernform Crystal Design Center showrooms. Visit modernform.co.th.
The Bastua Collection By Marimekko / Ikea
The rumour has been confirmed: Ikea is gearing up with Marimekko for the second collab, which launches in March. The Swedish furniture giant is working on a much wilder line-up than last time, comprising 26 products in total, ranging from furniture to glassware and textiles that all pop with colours and bold prints. With its name translated into the Swedish word for sauna in the Småland region, the "Bastua" collection encapsulates the sensations and pleasures of self-care rituals, with prints and designs drawing inspiration from the Nordic sauna culture. Taking centrestage of the collection's print design is a print of large, decorative rhubarb leaves that sometimes grow next to sauna buildings in Finland. Stay tuned at ikea.com/th.
The Art in Daily Life By Suntur / Madmatter Studio
Suntur has added yet another collaboration to his portfolio, joining forces with Madmatter Studio, a lifestyle label with a "waste to worth" philosophy, on a striking lifestyle collection. The artist breathes new life into the brand's classic offerings, serving as a canvas to showcase his artwork from his latest collection, "Take Your Time", which depicts his past memories when he takes a time to think about them. The range includes printed T-shirts, shopping bags, stools, cushion covers and tote bags, all sporting the Suntur's hand-drawn minimalist illustrations. "The Art In Daily Life" collection is available at a pop-up store by Suntur's latest art exhibit at River City Bangkok, on display until Feb 23. Shop at fb.com/madmatterstudio.
Buoy Boxes / Alexander Lamont Studio
From the whimsical charm of the petite Siamese rabbit, to the handcrafted beauty of Buoy Boxes, to the decorative functionality of Wing Trays, Alexander Lamont’s gifts and decorative objects will bring warmth and cheer to your home. The Siamese rabbit, a symbol of wit, prudence and skill, is cast in a rich dark bronze patina to make a charming gift for the season. A buoy floats in the water to show the boatman where to tie up or where he left his crab pots or nets. The shape of the Buoy Box is slightly off-round, as though the water has changed its shape. Made by hand with layers of vibrant red natural lacquer, the Buoy Boxes have been polished so that they shine and reflect the world around them. The Wing Tray is a marriage of goatskin rawhide and chicken wing wood, expertly carved into sweeping wing-like handles. Find a selection of limited edition gifts from the designer studio at bangkok@alexanderlamont.com.
JOIN
Knowledge Book Fair / Museum Siam / Feb 18-19
Bookworms can head to Museum Siam this weekend for the "Knowledge Book Fair" hosted by Matichon Publishing House. The event will gather celebrated authors, artists, scholars and more to share insider tips on their fields in special talks. In the garden zone, there will be an array of food and drink vendors to keep everyone's stomachs happy and live music by Roberto Uno. Attendees will also get a chance to win a free book through the "Knowledge Sharing" campaign by sharing their favourite or life-changing books. Go to fb.com/matichonbook.
Ink Wash Painting By Gi-ok Jeon / Joyrukclub Thailand / Feb 19
Joyrukclub Thailand hosts an art class by Gi-ok Jeon, a talented Korean artist based in Thailand, who specialises in traditional Chinese brush painting. Discover the noble art of ink-wash painting in the workshop, where you'll learn everything from preparing your handmade rice paper to brush-flicking techniques that bring life to your canvas. The class is priced at B2,800 per person, including class materials and snacks. Sign up at fb.com/JoyRukClub.
Woody Family of Fragrances Workshop / Tentacles Workshop / Feb 19
Attention all fragrance aficionados! Take your love for perfumes to the next level by joining Tada Archawong, perfumer and owner of Natural Teller, who introduces the world of the woody fragrance family. In this hands-on class, you'll have access to a wide range of raw woody materials to experiment with and create a bespoke scent that represents your personal style. A seat at the workshop is priced at B4,000 and includes snacks and beverages. Visit fb.com/TentaclesN22.
Sake Fair / Ki Izakaya, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok / Feb 17-18
Ki Izakaya at the Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok invites you to raise a glass at a unique sake-tasting event to celebrate the popular Japanese eatery turning one this month. The Sake Fair on Feb 17-18 will be held from 7-9pm. The two-day event will feature a range of 15 sake labels from different prefectures in Japan. In partnership with three sake suppliers, Ki Izakaya will showcase 16 labels from some of the top sake houses in Japan, House of Dassai, House of Born and House of Emishik. In addition to the sakes, guests can also sample umeshu and yuzu liqueurs, among others. Book tickets at bit.ly/CelebrateWonderousAnniversary. Call 02-095-9999 or email fb.sindhorn@kempinski.com.
Line Drawings / The Art Of Living / Until Feb 27
Raimon Land’s The Art Of Living pop-up art display is the first solo exhibition of young Thai artists TinTin and TiTo, and displays the creative imagination of children through line drawings under the concept of "Human + Nature = Future". Kridtin "TinTin" Tepumnuasakul, aged 12, and his younger brother Krittinat "TiTo" Tepumnuasakul, aged seven, have their own Facebook page called Studio Little Hands. The brothers like to draw and write in their free time and their artworks are line drawings inspired by their love of reading, watching documentaries and travelling. The exhibition consists of 12-15 pieces. The Art Of Living runs until March 27, with artists showcasing their works on a rotation basis every month at Tait Sathorn 12 from 9.30am-6pm. Call 02-029-1888 or Line: @raimonland.
The Endless Swimming Pool / River City Bangkok / Until Mar 19
Phannapast "Yoon" Taychamaythakool has unveiled her latest solo exhibition entitled "The Endless Swimming Pool" on the second floor of River City Bangkok at the RCB Photographers' Gallery. Underneath the dreamy and beautiful facade where Yoon has created her own universe lie symbols, exploration of freedom of thought, Carl Jung's collective unconscious, the interconnectedness of all humans despite different cultures and civilisations and more. As you enter the oval-shaped entrance, which symbolises birth, you'll be transported into a dimly lit world imbued with symbolism, meanings, myths and mysteries. Her marker-on-watercolour-paper works are an artistic amalgamation of inspirations, causing your eyes to linger on them as the details present themselves. In the centre, a galactic circle represents the cycle of life and all things while chariots in the shape of the head of the Roman god Mithras orbit around it. On one wall, an animation loop of a floating eye catches and captivates the eyes. Words simply can't do justice to the beautifully intricate universe, which Yoon has created for her third solo show, her most personal to date. River City Bangkok is on Charoen Krung 24. More info at fb.com/RiverCityBangkok.
STAY
Stay Human / Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok / Until Dec 28
Booking a stay at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok not only treats you to a luxurious experience but also contributes to a good cause that supports the welfare of dogs in need. This pet-friendly hotel on Soi Tonson offers a staycation deal, where a generous donation is made to the Soi Dog Foundation for every booking after expenses. Guests who book a minimum of a three-night stay can enjoy the Essential Room with a complimentary upgrade to the Premium Room, daily breakfast and Kimpton Hallmarks, which include coffee-to-go until 9.30am and a free-flow signature drink at Pool.bar from 5-6pm. Your little good boys and girls are welcome to join your urban getaway with prior notice of seven days in advance. Rates start at B8,550 per night. Visit kimptonmaalaibangkok.com.
Rayong Rendezvous / Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa / Until June 30
Bask in the tropical warmth at Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa, which offers a deal to top off your seaside getaway. Luxuriate in the sumptuous room or suite at a starting rate of B4,900 per night when booking with the "Rayong Rendezvous" promotion, which includes daily breakfast and a selection of 60-minute massages for two guests. Get pampered with a foot massage or a head-neck-shoulder massage at the resort's Quan Spa. Book at bit.ly/415b3Me.
Midtown Month of Love / Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok / Until Feb 28
In celebration of the month of love, make the most of your time with your loved ones and treat them to a romantic getaway at Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok. Starting from B5,750 per night, the hotel is offering the "Midtown Month of Love" package, which includes an array of benefits, such as daily breakfast at the Thai restaurant Bangkok'78 and a B1,500 F&B credit per night. Families with little ones can also rejoice, as children below the age of 11 stay for free and enjoy a complimentary ticket to the indoor playground HarborLand. Go to sindhornmidtown.com.
Muu Hotels / Thong Lo / New launch
Muu Hotels & Resorts recently announced the opening of its first property, Muu Bangkok, marking the brand’s debut in Thailand. A play on the Thai word for community and kinship, Muu transforms the luxury hotel experience into something personable, yet constantly evolving around the wants, needs and desires of its guests, and the community around which each property exists. A place where suits and pyjamas can share the same space comfortably, each one enjoying moments of happiness, made better through warm, uncompromised service and contemporary design. “We want to create a sense of community for and with our guests,” says Christian O.H. Zunk, group general manager of Muu Hotels. The 148-room Muu Bangkok, part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World community, is in Thong Lo with views of the bustling cityscape. Accommodation comprises spacious rooms, suites and residences starting at the 37m² Deluxe King and going up to the 180m² spectacular Thong Lo Suite, which includes a spacious private terrace. With modern amenities and friendly, personalised service, the contemporary lifestyle-oriented residences ranging from the 52m² One Bedroom Residence to the 170m² Three Bedroom Residence with Terrace are ideal for extended stays. Also tapping into the communal vibe are two restaurants and two bars, including a speakeasy, a high-tech gym and a rooftop swimming pool. Otto Italian Restaurant opens onto the expansive pool terrace, serving classic and modern Italian cuisine. La Sala di Otto is an art-deco sanctuary with a choice of plush seating and private alcoves. Slow Bar is ideal for an aperitif or a post-dinner drink, while the popular 008 Bar is a cosy speakeasy. Room rates start from B6,000++ per night and include daily breakfast. Call 02-090-9000, email: reservation.bangkok@muuhotels.com or visit muuhotels.com.
EAT & DRINK
Charity Dinner / Clara and J’Aime / Feb 28, March, 28, April 25 and May 28
The Foundation to Eradicate Neuromuscular Disease (Fend), in partnership with Clara and J’Aime restaurants, will host a charity dinner as a sequel to its "Rare & Share" project, an initiative from Roche Thailand to support and improve the quality of life for rare disease patients in Thailand. Proceeds from the dinner will be donated to help patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The dinners will take place on Feb 28 at J'Aime Restaurant, March 26 at Clara, April 25 at J'Aime and on May 28 at Clara. Each course will present real-life experiences of SMA patients, to help raise awareness for Thai people about the rare disease. Specially curated items, such as tableware and giant heavy-weight cutlery is designed for the occasion and used to reflect the handling of objects in patients with muscular dystrophy. There is also the addition of menu items that require more than 24-hour cook time, which reflects the 24-hour care that is required for patients. The six-course dinners are a rendition of real-life challenges experienced by SMA patients and caretakers. Call 02-119-4899 or email reserve@jaime-bangkok.com to reserve a seat at J'Aime or call 02-3496-3663 or email clara@clarabangkok.com to reserve at Clara. Visit rareandshare.com.
Pizza, Pasta, Party / Ventisi, Centara Grand at CentralWorld / Until March 31
Ventisi has announced a special deal on pizza and pasta every Monday and Tuesday until March 31. For B590++ per person, diners can indulge in a pasta or pizza combo with a drink and dessert. The pasta menu includes options such as Spaghetti vongole, Mozzarella ravioli with tomato sauce and Italian basil, Tagliolini with white truffle sauce, Rustic spaghetti with sausage ragu and truffle, and Pappardelle with Wagyu beef cheeks. The pizza options include Hawaiian, Calabria (pepperoni), Margherita, Boscaiola (ham and mushroom), and Frutti di Mare. In addition to the food, guests can also choose from a pint of draught Peroni Italian beer or a glass of Italian sparkling, white or red wines. Housemade tiramisu in a choice of four flavours is also on offer for dessert.Call 02-100-6255 or email diningcgcw@chr.co.th.
Sunday Harvest Brunch / GranMonte Vineyard and Winery / Feb 19, Feb 26, March 5 and March 12
GranMonte Vineyard and Winery in Khao Yai will host a gastronomical harvest season with three chefs in the seasonal festivities and Sunday brunch. Chef David Thompson of Aksorn Bangkok, chef Jutamas “Som” Theantae of Som's Table in Hua Hin and chef Nelson "Noom" Chantrawan of Chim By Siam Wisdom Bangkok will be cooking for the Sunday Harvest Brunch, beginning Feb 19. On the day, there will be welcome wines enjoyed in the vineyard, a grape-harvesting activity and games, personalised wine bottle signing, a photo opportunity with the chefs and a Sunday Harvest Brunch with unlimited sparkling wine. The brunch will be held at Vincotto By Granmonte. The event is limited to 60 people and priced at B2,890++ per adult and B1,990++ for those below the age of 20. Call 094-831-0909 or 092-806-7755, email reservation@granmonte.com or visit fb.com/granmonte.
Bar takeovers / Various locations / Feb 24-27
The Pontiac's all-female bar team in Hong Kong, led by bar manager Jen Queen, is visiting Bangkok for three nights in a series of pop-ups extending from Feb 24-27th. On Feb 24, Queen will be pouring at The Deck Bangkok on Sukhumvit 20 at 7pm (call 095-239-0805 or visit bit.ly/3CE9Lx0); on Feb 26 at Fatboy Izakaya on Sukhumvit 63 at 5pm (Line @fatboyizakaya); and on Feb 27 at Peppina on Sukhumvit 31 at 6pm (call 02-119-7677 or Line @peppina33). The Pontiac is a rock ’n’ roll craft cocktail bar inspired by the neighbourhood bars of Portland, Brooklyn and San Francisco. The focus at the bar is inclusivity and community, and has been on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for five consecutive years from 2016 to 2020, and in 2022.
Ping Me For A Cocktail / Scarlett Bangkok / Feb 23
A collaboration with Find The Locker Room and in partnership with Hendrick’s Gin, Scarlett Bangkok at the Pullman G Bangkok presents the first of its guest shift session for the year, "Ping Me For A Cocktail". Aptly named after Rojanat "Ping" Chareonsri, who spearheads the beverage programme for the bar, the one-night only event will feature four creations by Ping: From Singapore To Yokohama; Have Fun; Pineapple Apple Pine and The Cheese Platter. Each cocktail will be priced at B380++ and the shift will be on Feb 23 from 8.30-10.30pm. Call 096-860-7990, Line: bitly.ws/zaVd or make a reservation via Chope.
WATCH
Ant-Man And The Wasp: Quantumania in cinemas
Directed by Peyton Reed.
Who's in it?
Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly and Jonathan Majors.
What's it about?
Scott Lang and Hope Van Dyne, along with Hank Pym and Janet Van Dyne, explore the Quantum Realm, where they interact with strange creatures and embark on an adventure that goes beyond the limits of what they thought was possible.
Why watch it?
The latest installment in the Ant-Man franchise. It also kicks off Phase Five of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The Whale in cinemas
Directed by Darren Aronofsky.
Who's in it?
Brendan Fraser, Sadie Sink and Ty Simpkins.
What's it about?
A reclusive, morbidly obese English teacher attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter.
Why watch it?
The film has faced criticism for its portrayal of an obese person, as well as casting Fraser (a straight actor) in the role of a gay character. However, critics have praised Fraser and Sink's performances, with 'Variety' noting Fraser is "a better actor — slyer, subtler, more haunting — than he has ever been."
