When Suan Santichai-prakarn Park opened to the public in 1999, Bangkok's old Phra Arthit Road became a natural destination for those in search of restful recreation.

The lush park offers serenity to visitors but also a pavilion that occasionally becomes a stage for alternative theatre troupes.

Meanwhile the street is stuffed with an array of cafes attracting pedestrians with the delicious aromas of coffee and desserts. But the coolest hub is caf? and gallery On Art, emerging as a space for the display of textiles, jewellery and paintings by Thai art students.

The white two-storey coffee shop was opened last year by Kulaya Katsakul and her younger brother Rakchat. The store's first floor is a showcase of fashion products by new-wave designers. Featured are a line of dresses, blouses, trousers, T-shirts, hats, shoes, handmade handbags and key rings along with a jewellery collection that includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. Also on display are a collection of notebooks, old-fashioned zinc toys and beautiful postcards.                     

"I discovered this shop when I was studying at Silpakorn University; my friends often showcase their works here", says Nuttakarn Jithitikulchai, a graduate of the university's faculty of decorative arts. "My brass jewellery collection on show here was part of my thesis project. It's inspired by Chinese traditions."

Stroll on up to the second floor and you'll come across  a small gallery displaying contemporary-style portraits by artists and students.

Here you'll also find a photographic studio where for Bt399 customers can pose for 20 shots.

Those tired of perusing the arts can take a break at a tea-and-coffee corner. There are various fruit teas from Hong Kong offered at Bt45 per pot and a glass of Thai coffee is Bt30. Yummy cakes are also available at Bt90, or you can get two scoops of Italian ice cream for Bt50.

By Pattarawadee Saengmanee

Daily Express