The creative spirit is alive and thriving in Battambang as the Phare Ponleu Selpak, Safe Space BtB and AF Entertainment Productions, three organisations with the same objectives, continue their collaborative efforts through the “Cinema 4D Future” project. The initiative aims to make the dreams of local youth come true by providing free-of-charge film workshops led by renowned Khmer film directors and producers. The sixth instalment of the series is scheduled to take place on August 26 at the Phare Ponleu Selpak campus and is titled, “The different steps of making a feature film: from the first idea to the shooting.”…
Author: Raksmey Hong
In the heart of Phnom Penh, photographer Kim Hak’s Alive IV stands as a beacon of shared memories and histories. The exhibition not only spotlights the Cambodian community in Japan but also reveals intimate tales of former refugees and their descendants, showcasing the power of heritage. The August 18 launch saw an eclectic mix of attendees, from former refugee students to those born in far-off lands. Kim Hak, the brain behind Alive, emphasised the value of their involvement. “It’s vital for them to connect with Alive in Cambodia to truly grasp their ancestors’ roots,” he said. This tale doesn’t just…
In a captivating display of artistic prowess, 38-year-old artist Nak Nang skilfully designs a painting, meticulously crafting Khmer syllabics by hand with breath-taking beauty. Each stroke of the calligrapher’s brush breathes life into the ancient Khmer script, transforming it into a work of art that resonates with cultural heritage and artistic finesse. The result is a logo that not only symbolises the essence of Khmer culture but also stands as a testament to the enduring artistry of calligraphy in the digital age, where every stroke is a brush with tradition and elegance. “In the digital age, where computer technology designs…
At factory Phnom Penh on August 20, a groundbreaking workshop titled “The Path to Mental Illness Relief” took a bold step towards addressing Cambodia’s deeply rooted psychological wounds. This workshop, which ran from 9am to 5:30pm, paved the way for a more open dialogue about mental health and emotional wellness among Cambodians. Spearheading the initiative was Cambodian artist and activist Adana Mam-Legros, drawing from her own personal journey to inspire others. “Workshops like these offer foundational knowledge about mental health, and the chance to seek help and healing,” said Mam-Legros, an artist known for blending philanthropy with art. “The goal…
The Airavata Elephant Foundation’s 5th Charity Gala, held on August 18, boasted a notable surge in attendance. Clais Chenda, the foundation’s president, shared that a diverse crowd gathered for a united cause of protecting Cambodia’s elephants. Among the attendees were government officials, business leaders, celebrities, artists, and passionate individuals. All united in their shared mission to champion the majestic elephants that are so central to Cambodia’s rich heritage. “This year, we had over 300 people in attendance, a significant increase from the usual 100. The only exception was our inaugural gala at the French embassy, which drew more than 500…
A local Siem Reap man, passionate about infusing vintage allure into the tourism scene, has reinvented a classic French colonial mode of tourist transport, the bicycle drawn remorque – but with a modern twist. Bo Sophea and a colleague began their retro adventure several months ago, whisking an Italian pair of newlyweds through the vibrant streets of Siem Reap town to the world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park. From the first day, the duo claimed the experience was seamless, with the two guests settling comfortably into the quaint rickshaws of yesteryear. Sophea’s extensive knowledge breathed life into the revered Angkor Wat Temple,…
In a grand Bangkok ceremony, Cambodian literary figures Ven Son, Sou Chamroeun, and Pech Sangwawann received the illustrious S.E.A. Write Award, celebrating their notable literary endeavours from 2019 to 2021. Presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya on August 10, it marked the first in-person ceremony since 2019. This award is the pinnacle of recognition for writers from ASEAN countries. Established in 1979 by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, the award champions the accomplishments of Southeast Asian writers. Proeung Pranit, president of the Khmer Writers Association, praised the recipients, noting their works’ remarkable quality. “With awards…
In Phnom Penh, the Chhouk Sar Clinic has teamed up with nonprofit FHI360 to kick off their “Test! Test!” campaign. The aim is to persuade those most at risk of HIV infection to get tested. Over two days, August 25 and 26, the clinic is offering its services for free from 9 am to 4 pm. Yun Phearun, the executive director of the Chhouk Sar Association, is keen to stress the importance of this campaign. “We’ve seen rising HIV infection rates, and we urgently need to tackle them,” he said. As part of the drive, the clinic is ramping up…
Elevating unity and transformation, the Long Beach Symphony has orchestrated a significant journey in the heart of Long Beach, California. The Association of California Symphony Orchestras (ACSO) bestowed the esteemed 2023 Social Impact Award on July 13, highlighting the symphony’s profound dedication to catalysing positive change and confronting community challenges. “This award celebrates our years of work with our Cambodian-American community, creating life-long partnerships and friendships,” said Kelly Ruggirello, who has led the Long Beach Symphony since 2013. The Long Beach Symphony stands as an epitome of live music production in the region and ranks among Southern California’s esteemed professional…
As the Digital Talents competition reaches its midway point, the seven-week “Battle Zone” – or phase five between July and September – is in full swing, showcasing the exceptional talents of high school students from across the nation. Digital Talents, an immersive semi-reality competition show organised by the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, is designed to illuminate the academic prowess of high school students from Grade 10 to Grade 12 across Cambodia. The competition’s core theme, “Digital Literacy”, serves as the focal point of each of the 14 episodes. The competition began on March 16, with the aim of achieving…