Inside, a magnificent life size, one-of-a-kind resin statue of a defiant Cultural revolution-era teacher stands side-by-side with exquisite works by Chagall, Dali, Picasso and Warhol.
“Most people who come these days do so to look around,” admits owner and art enthusiast Eric Smulder, “Most of the business I have comes from the internet now.”
The pieces Mr Smulder sells – contemporary Chinese art and Western works from the 19th and 20th centuries – has remained the same of late, but trading online has enlarged his clientèle base.
“Many of my clients are from Ecuador and Hungary, and of course China.”
Indeed, China is becoming an increasingly important market for both consumers and creators of art.
“It’s exquisite, just from the sheer numbers of Chinese people, it’s completely understandable how many great artists there are.
“All my works are originals – not copies. I am fascinated by modern Chinese art and the number of Chinese artists now earning huge amounts of money has become massive.”
One sculpture from Chinese artist Shi Lifeng is extraordinary, and is available for B590,000. It’s quite an investment, bur Mr Smulders said that this shouldn’t be the raison d'etre for buying.
“Art has to be a conversation piece. Art shouldn’t be an investment. Invest in your enjoyment and enjoy your investment.”
Mr Smulders certainly likes investing, “I choose everything myself, that’s the fun, that’s why I have too much stock,” he jokes.
However, he leaves no stone unturned in his search for the best works, “I buy from private collectors and private auctions and go to many international auctions, such as Sotheby’s.”
Soul of Asia, 5/50 Moo 3, Cherngtalay, Thalang District, Phuket. 076 271 629, 076 270 055. info@soulofasia.com. soulofasia.com