Officials unveiled the project, ‘Exploring Phuket’s Art and Traditions for Creative Tourism’, during a press conference at Blue Elephant Phuket this week, outlining plans to transform cultural assets into a key driver of sustainable economic growth.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Phuket Provincial Cultural Office, is built around the concept ‘Living in Harmony and Art’, aiming to present the island’s lifestyle, traditions and community spirit through the eyes of local artists while blending heritage with modern creative expression.
A large-scale public showcase is scheduled for May 15-16 from 5pm to 8pm at Saphan Hin in Phuket Town, where artists, learning centres and cultural groups from across the province will open their doors and exhibit their work.
Vice Governor Adul Chuthong said the province is prioritising collaboration at both domestic and Asean levels, integrating efforts between government agencies, private sector partners and local cultural organisations.
He stressed that media exposure would be critical in amplifying Phuket’s cultural identity to international audiences, helping to translate creative assets into tangible economic gains.
Acting Provincial Cultural Officer Supawadee Paipak said the project aligns with Ministry of Culture policy to preserve and expand local artistic and intellectual heritage while linking it to tourism.
“Creative tourism is a key mechanism to increase value across economic, social and cultural dimensions,” she said.
Anchalee Vanich Thepbutr, President of the Phuket Arts Association, highlighted what she called the legacy of the Thailand Biennale Phuket 2025 as a turning point that “placed Phuket on the global art map”.
She said continued, coordinated development could see the island evolve into a recognised “art port city”.
The upcoming showcase will feature a wide spectrum of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, contemporary installations and traditional handicrafts, alongside environmentally themed works using recycled materials and live art performances.
Participating groups include Aree Phuket Art Gallery, Phuket Art Village, YorYing: A Small Art Space, Baan Thai Art Gallery and Sep Silp Rin Cha, as well as artists from the Baan Kookoo Sufficiency Economy Art Learning Center and independent creators.
In addition to exhibitions, the event will offer interactive workshops, open-house tours of artists’ studios and learning centres, and opportunities for visitors to engage directly with local culture and creative practices.
Organisers say the programme is designed not only as a showcase, but as a practical platform linking art with community life, environmental awareness and tourism development.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to elevate Phuket’s “cultural capital” ‒ a term being used to describe the island’s unique blend of heritage, creativity and local wisdom ‒ into a sustainable economic pillar.
Officials say the long-term goal is to establish Phuket as a destination where art and culture are deeply embedded in the visitor experience, extending beyond beaches and nightlife.
Residents and visitors are invited to attend the free public event at Saphan Hin on May 15-16, where organisers hope the fusion of tradition and contemporary creativity will offer a fresh perspective on Phuket’s identity.
Of note, the official press launch of the project failed to make any mention of the government budget being spent on the project.