That’s one fancy flea (market)
The sixth edition of Made By Legacy finds a new, hi-so home
A few years ago, not many people knew what Made By Legacy was. Today, it’s just the opposite — you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn’t caught wind of this biannual vintage market. And wouldn’t you know it, the pioneer of Bangkok’s urban flea market is back, with a new home. (Which is good news for us, since the previous venue was the outdoor grounds of the State Railway of Thailand’s head office — and this is rainy season!)
The upcoming MBL will be held on the 6/F of Central Embassy, an unseen part of the shopping complex never before opened to the public, on Jul 11-12. As with previous MBL markets, the products on offer are vintage and collectable items, as well as clothes, arts and crafts made by the younger generations. Featuring more than 150 stalls in a 4,000m² space, the upcoming event is set to be to be the biggest MBL flea market ever held.
Guru speaks with Vudi Somboonkulavudi, the man who brought MBL to life, about the upcoming event.
How will this edition of MBL be different from previous ones?
We’re relocating to an upscale shopping complex, which honestly doesn’t go with the vintage, second-hand, artsy feel. Our fans are quite surprised by the chosen venue, and many are sceptical about it. Modern markets are popping up at condominiums and shopping malls, sort of like how bacteria grows, and it makes markets boring. I want to mock this phenomenon by organising my market at a shopping complex, but choosing a space that can still represent MBL’s identity. The contrast between the space and the event will make it even more interesting — and a unique experience.
Does the location affect the market’s character?
It does, definitely. I’d always held the market at vintage places with historical value, but when I saw this venue for the first time, I changed my mind. I believe that it can be just the right venue for MBL. Cool events around the world are held at warehouses, abandoned buildings or unfinished construction sites, like Basilica Farm & Flea in New York. I want to recreate that experience at Central Embassy.
What can we expect to see? What are the highlights?
I think it’s the total concept that makes the event stand out. With more than 150 stalls, it will be the largest MBL event ever held, and there will be many fresh faces joining us.
There are so many market events these days. What makes MBL unique?
MBL has always been unique, ever since it was introduced three years ago. It was an event that brought together a small community of vintage lovers and flea market lovers. It’s a special gathering that happens only twice a year.
In 10 words, convince our readers why they shouldn’t miss this event.
Because all your friends will be talking about it after.