The Silk Road Chronicles: Bill Bensley to Hold 3-Month Rotating Exhibition Series of New Works at ART Space by MOCA Bangkok at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok

Renowned architect, designer and artist Bill Bensley will return to the ART Space by MOCA Bangkok at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok with an extraordinary rotating art exhibition featuring three distinct collections, running from January 10 to April 20, 2025.

Bensley’s latest collections, brimming with vibrant works inspired by his travels across 11 countries since his last exhibition at the venue in 2023, are dedicated to supporting environmental conservation and educational programs in Southeast Asia. Bensley’s philanthropic commitment takes centre stage, with each exhibition designed to fund initiatives benefiting communities in Cambodia and Laos through the Shinta Mani Foundation.

The rotating exhibition will feature three distinct shows, each focused on a unique theme and cause. The dynamic pieces reflect Bensley’s passion for nature and cultural diversity, with proceeds donated to the Shinta Mani Foundation to support his chosen causes. His exhibitions embody his deep-rooted dedication to environmental and humanitarian causes.

Exhibition Schedule

New Paintings by Bill Bensley

• Duration: January 10-30, 2025

Bensley’s first exhibition of 2025 celebrates his journey through diverse landscapes. Inspired by his recent travels, these dynamic paintings reflect his love for nature and the idiosyncrasies of different cultures.

Proceeds Beneficiaries: Education for deaf children in Luang Prabang and 36 underprivileged young adults in Siem Reap, Cambodia, enabling them to attend the Shinta Mani Hospitality School Class of 2025.

The Ring of Fire

• Duration: January 31 – February 27, 2025

This show explores Bensley’s fascination with fire, lightning, and volcanoes. Drawing inspiration from natural gas fires in Uzbekistan to active volcanoes in Japan, Mongolia, Korea and Indonesia, Bensley captures the intense beauty of Earth’s fiery forces.

Proceeds Beneficiaries: Milk for infants, clean water, toilets, and housing for underprivileged families in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Call of the Cardamoms

• Duration: February 28 – April 20, 2025

This show celebrates the work of global artists and artisans who have joined forces with Bensley to highlight the endangered animals of the Cardamom Rainforest in Cambodia. This rainforest is the last green lung of Southeast Asia, vital for the environmental and cultural health of Thailand, Cambodia, and the wider region.

All proceeds from Call of the Cardamoms will directly support the preservation, protection, and conservation of the Cardamom Rainforest, which is home to a diverse range of native species such as langurs, slow lorises, mongooses, and gibbons. The Shinta Mani Foundation and the Wildlife Alliance work tirelessly to safeguard this pristine ecosystem’s rich flora and fauna, which is under threat from illegal logging, poaching, and climate change.

This exhibition not only celebrates artistic expression but also underscores the urgent need to protect the Cardamom Forests, an ecological cornerstone essential for the sustainability and natural heritage of both Thailand and Cambodia.

Proceeds Beneficiaries: Conservation of the Cardamom Rainforest in Cambodia, in partnership with the Shinta Mani Foundation and NGO Wildlife Alliance.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Bill Bensley back to the ART Space with his latest exhibition. Bill’s creativity and heart are unmatched, with each collection not only inspiring but also making a real impact - from supporting education to preserving the Cardamom Rainforest. It's an honour to showcase his work and be part of this meaningful journey,” says Lubosh Barta, Regional Vice President and General Manager of Four Seasons Bangkok.

Purpose

All of Bensley’s work, whether artistic or in hospitality, has a meaningful purpose. A concerned conservationist and passionate philanthropist, he works tirelessly to raise funds for the Shinta Mani Foundation’s outreach projects in Cambodia. Bensley is deeply committed to the important work the Foundation does, making a real difference in the lives of local villagers and families, as well as in conservation efforts. One hundred percent of proceeds raised from the sale of the artworks will go directly to these projects. For more information, visit the Shinta Mani Foundation’s website at shintamanifoundation.org.

“Art has become another of my greatest passions, and I’m absolutely thrilled about my upcoming rotating art exhibition at MOCA Art Space at Four Seasons Bangkok. This is more than just an opportunity to display my work - it’s a chance to tell stories, provoke thought, and share the incredible energy and cultural richness of my travels and the characters I have met through art. Each piece reflects a chapter of my journey and the beauty I see in the world around me. What makes this exhibition truly special is its dynamic nature - it’s ever-changing, evolving with new themes and ideas to keep it fresh and inspiring for every visitor. I want this space to be a sanctuary for creativity and connection, a place where art lovers and curious minds can gather to celebrate the power of imagination. It’s been a dream to bring this project to life, and I hope it resonates as deeply with others as it has with me in creating it,” shares Bill.

Exhibition Details

Prices range from USD 6,000 to 10,000. A digital catalogue is available here for viewers and buyers to peruse the artwork and purchase from abroad. Packing prior to shipping will be organised by MOCA BANGKOK. The artworks (1.2 x 1.2 metres, 1.2 x 2.4 metres, 2.0 x 2.0 metres) are stretched on collapsible frames, allowing guests to take them home immediately as checked-in luggage. Shipping costs are not included.

About the ART Space by MOCA BANGKOK at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

The innovative ART Space at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River has emerged from a partnership with MOCA BANGKOK. Located in the Bangkok Creative District, art and creativity take centre stage as imaginative Thai artists offer guests a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the local creative landscape without leaving the hotel.

Under the joint initiative, the hotel displays a selection of impeccably curated Thai works of art by MOCA Bangkok. Exhibitions rotate regularly, so both Bangkok residents and returning Four Seasons guests can view new collections several times a year. The showcase at the hotel is an extension of the museum, providing a chance to appreciate fine art in an unconventional ambience.

About Bill Bensley

Bill Bensley is a jack of all trades - with a new notch on his belt! Having ventured into architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, fishing, and even writing, Bensley has now added the fine arts to his already impressive skill set. Unbeknownst to many, painting didn’t come naturally to Bill, who only discovered a passion for it in the last three years. Inspired and mentored by his dear friend, Caribbean-based artist Kate Spencer, Bill took up his paintbrush and easel and fell down the rabbit hole. After several painting holidays with Kate, Bill now draws and paints wherever he goes, often on aeroplanes, site visits, and even the backs of menus!

Bill has developed a fauvist style, bursting with bold colours, delightful forms, often with a touch of humour, and his trademark gift for storytelling. As someone who was never formally trained in the fine arts, he considers himself an "outsider" to the art scene.