Thai Heritage Collecting Program Launches Professional Certification

Kasetsart University and the Fine Arts Department have opened the third annual Art Collecting exhibition, promoting a micro-credential curriculum to establish antique collecting as a recognized profession. The event, held August 13–15, 2025, at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, brings together Fine Arts Department Director Phanombut Chanthrachoti, university leaders, scholars, collectors, and students to celebrate Thai artistic heritage. The collaboration aims to preserve and expand knowledge of Thai art heritage, creating economic value and national soft power while developing the first micro-credential curriculum in antique collecting to give people of all ages the opportunity to learn, develop skills, and earn national professional certification.

Director Phanombut emphasized that modern conservation of Thai artistic heritage requires systematic collection, storage, and knowledge transmission, as much expertise remains with older generations at risk of being lost. He noted that collecting can begin as a personal passion—from amulets to various artifacts—but with dedication can develop into a stable profession. "The value collectors find in their acquisitions transcends monetary worth," he said, adding that institutions like Kasetsart University can help turn such passion into recognized careers and new opportunities for people to discover their interests.

Associate Professor Mandol stated that Kasetsart University aims to serve as a lifelong learning hub connecting Thai artistic heritage knowledge to the broader public. The university will integrate expertise from collector networks, specialists, and academics into a credit bank system and the micro-credential curriculum for antique collecting, elevating the practice from personal hobby to professional qualification and future career opportunity.

The event features exhibitions of rare artworks from leading collectors nationwide, including amulets, ancient ceramics, antique textiles, and historically valuable collections. Seminars and workshops offer participants guidance on collecting, valuation, and heritage management as a financial asset—a growing interest in the creative economy. This year's program reflects Kasetsart University's role in connecting knowledge and positioning collecting as a legitimate cultural and economic field.