When Curtis Schroeder, former hospital CEO, together with Helen Papazian of
Community Services of Bangkok, initiated the revival of the “Living in Bangkok”
exhibition in 1998 to take place at Bumrungrad, they invited ThaiCraft, which had run
popular monthly craft fairs since 1992, as the third organising partner.
LINKING YOU TO AMAZING COMPANIES
As well as the ability to attract large numbers of expatriates to its events, ThaiCraft more importantly ensured there was a tangible link established between expatriate life in the big city and Thai communities from all parts of our host country, including those situated remotely and/or living in marginal circumstances.
Bumrungrad itself had always quietly and regularly sent teams of doctors and medical staff to such areas, conducting clinics and surgical treatments in low-income communities. The hospital wanted to support ThaiCraft’s objective to provide economically disadvantaged artisans access to a sustainable market with fair trade principles.
FACE TO FACE WITH LOCAL ARTISANS
Because of this shared concern for both the welfare of all Thai people and for the preservation of their diverse cultures, a healthy bond between Bumrungrad and ThaiCraft continues to flourish today. By inviting in artisans who embody this kingdom’s ethnic diversity, ThaiCraft enables expatriate newcomers to meet face-to-face with local artisans and to appreciate their fine inherited craft skills. These unique handmade products provide a Thai accent to Bangkok apartments as well as ideal gifts for family and friends when returning home.
THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
The handmade products created by our artisan partners are as wide and varied in scope as are their origins, location and cultures. There’s jewellery in silver, stones, coconut shell, painted ceramics and even recycled paper.
Basketry, cotton and silk weaving, artwork in leather or as scroll paintings, soaps and creams with herbal essences, tableware in palmwood and stainless steel, bags and purses with ethnic embroidery, table mats in crochet or beads, hand-turned pottery and handmade paper cards are just a few tastes of what you can find at a ThaiCraft Fair.
COME AND VISIT US
Living in Bangkok, or anywhere else, is much more enriching when people come together to create strong communities. This is what we aim to do every year, by bringing local artisans and makers with the new and seasoned expats that call Bangkok their home.
Don’t miss your chance to engage more deeply with your community at this year’s Living in Bangkok event.