science
Mona and Thai Developer Sign Deal for New Museum in Bangkok
Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art signed a memorandum of understanding with Thai real estate company Asset World Corporation to create MONA Bangkok. The project will be built on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
Jul 10, 9:00 AM·1m read1 source
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Abc reported that Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art signed a memorandum of understanding with Thai real estate company Asset World Corporation to develop MONA Bangkok on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. David Walsh signed the agreement on behalf of Mona on Friday in Bangkok. Kirsha Kaechele, Leigh Carmichael, Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff and several Thai officials attended the signing.
Abc reported that AWC first met Mona representatives in Thailand during a government trade and investment mission and later traveled to Tasmania last year to advance the discussions. Mona opened in 2011 on the banks of the River Derwent in Hobart. Walsh, who made his fortune through professional gambling, established the museum, which remains free for Tasmanians and does not generate a profit.
He also founded the midwinter arts festival Dark Mofo. DarkLab, created by Walsh and Carmichael in 2016, operates the festival and owns the Odeon Theatre and Altar Bar in Hobart. Carmichael will lead the MONA Bangkok project for Mona under Walsh's direction.
Abc reported Walsh stating that AWC had presented a remarkable opportunity to apply lessons from 25 years of museum study in one of the world's great tourist centers. Carmichael said the Bangkok museum would explore the theme of light and present work by leading international artists while engaging with Thai artists and cultural traditions.
Rockliff said the project places Tasmania at the global forefront of the cultural landscape and could encourage visitors to travel to Hobart after seeing the new site.
