Chiang Rai Province is the northernmost province of Thailand, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique Lanna art. It is also the birthplace of two National Artists: Professor Chalermchai Kositpipat, National Artist in Visual Arts (Painting) 2011, and Professor Thawan Duchanee, National Artist in Visual Arts (Painting) 2001.

Today, we will take you on a journey to explore the masterpieces of two National Artists of Thailand. Our first stop is the **Wat Rong Khun**, a stunning white temple adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering mosaics, created by the renowned artist Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat. Next, we will visit the **Black House Museum**, a unique and thought-provoking collection of art installations by Ajarn Thawan Duchanee.

White Temple

The White Temple: A Modern Masterpiece

The White Temple, formally known as Wat Rong Khun, is a striking contemporary Buddhist temple renowned for its dazzling white exterior adorned with shimmering glass and intricate, unconventional murals. Designed and constructed by National Artist Chalermchai Kositpipat since 1997, the temple embodies the artist's vision of a grand artistic tribute to the nation, religion, and the monarchy.

Let's begin our exploration of the beauty within Wat Rong Khun. As we enter from the rear parking lot, we encounter a magnificent golden bell tower standing tall and elegant.

The Buddha statue enshrined within the temple.

Upon entering, one is greeted by the stunning beauty of the white architecture.

Covered walkway leading to the temple

The beauty of the side of the ordination hall

Silver yin-yang symbol and bodhi leaf

A wishing well where we stood according to our zodiac signs, made a wish, and then threw a coin into the well.

An unconventional form of applied art conceals enigmatic Buddhist principles.

Before entering the magnificent ordination hall, let's take a quick detour to the restrooms. The golden building you see is the restroom facility. According to an interview with Professor Chalermchai, he wanted to ensure that using the temple's restrooms wouldn't be an unpleasant or unhygienic experience. As a result, he created a stunning and opulent "Golden Toilet." Even just admiring the restrooms is a delightful experience.

After admiring the beauty and using the restroom, let's head to the ordination hall. On the way, you'll notice numerous riddles about hungry ghosts seeking merit on the stairs.

The bridge leading to the ubosot symbolizes the crossing from samsara to the state of enlightenment, which requires passing through the jaws of Mara, representing the desires and attachments that are like the hell realms. Those who wish to enter the presence of the Buddha in the state of enlightenment must first relinquish their desires and attachments, casting them into the mouth of Mara.

Upon reaching the entrance of the temple, one passes through the realm of the four formless Brahma realms.

The triangular glass windows symbolize emptiness and liberation, leading to the inner sanctum of the ordination hall. The four walls are adorned with murals depicting the liberation from worldly desires and the pursuit of enlightenment. However, photography is not permitted inside the ordination hall.

After visiting the ordination hall, there is also an exhibition room inside Wat Rong Khun where the collected works of Ajarn Chalermchai are displayed. Photography is not allowed inside the exhibition room.

The ethereal beauty of Wat Rong Khun at dusk.

Visitors to Wat Rong Khun often take photos with this statue, so we should do the same.

After fully appreciating the beauty of Wat Rong Khun, continue on to the Black House Museum.

Black House Museum

The Black House Museum: A Legacy of Art and Culture

The Black House Museum, a brainchild of National Artist Thawan Duchanee, stands as a unique testament to the artist's vision. This museum, housed in a traditional Lanna-style wooden structure, is entirely painted black, adorned with intricate wood carvings that showcase Thawan's distinctive artistic style. Over a period of 50 years, Thawan meticulously crafted this artistic haven on a 100-acre plot in Baan Dam, Nang Lae, Chiang Rai. The museum serves as a repository of diverse art forms, spanning from ancient times to the present day. Thawan's dedication to art and culture is evident in his creation of this space, intended to inspire and educate future generations.

Enter the Black House Museum.

A large, imposing black wooden house stands before you, which is the cathedral.

The front of the house-shaped temple is called the small temple. The wooden house is on a lotus base with a granite floor. The door and window panels and the Buddha statue are made of carved wood.

The house is a beautiful, intricately carved, black wooden structure in the Lanna style.

The interior of the Grand Palace features exquisite wood carvings.

The sculpture is by Professor Thawan Duchanee. The black sculpture below vaguely resembles Darth Vader from Star Wars.

Paintings inside the Black House Museum

Carved wood and animal horns

Paintings by Professor Thawan Duchanee

The Black House Museum houses a vast collection of animal horns and hides in each of its buildings. According to museum staff, the artist had a passion for collecting these items. He would often accept animal horns or hides as payment for his artwork instead of money.

Peculiarly shaped wood carvings

The intricately carved wooden door is truly magnificent.

Wood carving

The rear of the cathedral

This house is called Wihan Ram.

Saturn's ring system surrounds the planet.

The interior contained a large quantity of animal horns and hides.

The serene and cool atmosphere within the Black House Museum provides a perfect setting for appreciating both art and nature simultaneously.

Two Must-See Art Destinations in Chiang Rai

For art enthusiasts visiting Chiang Rai, two remarkable locations offer a unique opportunity to witness and experience the exquisite artistry of two renowned national artists. These sites showcase their exceptional works, rarely seen elsewhere, and provide a captivating glimpse into their distinct artistic styles and breathtaking beauty.

White Temple

Location: San Sai Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District

Opening Hours: The temple is open to the public daily from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Exhibition Room: Open Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

Black House Museum

Location: Nangkae Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province

Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entrance fee: 80 baht